Watch CBS News

Stringer: City Should Demand Gun Manufacturers Produce Smart Guns

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer on Monday was urging the city to consider demanding gun manufacturers to produce more smart guns.

Stringer said that besides the federal government, the New York City  is one of the largest gun buyers in the country, WCBS 880's Peter Haskell reported. Stringer said that the city should use its economic influence to help shift the market into producing more smart guns, which is believed to a safer option for gun use.

Smart guns are specialized firearms that can only be fired when activated by a specific, authorized user.

"If we demand smart guns here in New York, we will create a new market for this technology that will help every city and town in the United States," Stringer said.

Earlier this month, President Barack Obama moved to tighten gun laws across the country, with an executive order mandating gun retailers provide background checks for all prospective customers.

In December 2015, New Jersey passed a bill requiring firearms retailers to sell smart guns in the same manner as other handguns, with hopes that the legislation would ultimately lead to less gun violence.

Stringer criticized Mayor Bill de Blasio, saying that the mayor failed to show leadership on the gun law issue.

A de Blasio spokesperson said the administration will review the idea.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.