By Tom Precious
ALBANY -- The Assembly has just begun debate on the new gun control legislation, with passage expected in the next couple hours.
"I am proud ... that New York is taking the lead on this issue because we must prevent and protect our public from the mass destruction that can now take place in literally seconds,'' said Assembly Codes Committee Chairman Joseph Lentol, a Brooklyn Democrat who will be answering questions on the bill from supporters and opponents during the debate.
The Senate passed the bill late last night, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo will swiftly sign the bill into law later this afternoon. Some of its key components, such as lowering the maximum bullet magazine capacity from 10 to seven, will kick in immediately. But Lentol said the assault weapon ban, which Cuomo last night said would be effective immediatley, does not become effective for 90 days. Cuomo said he was worried about a run on the guns if the legislation isn't passed immediately.
UPDATE: Lentol corrected himself; assault weapon restrictions take effect immediately.
