Attorney general warns retailers on Halloween toy gun sales
AG James urges parents to watch for illegal, realistic-looking toy guns in stores this Halloween
A comparison of toy guns: one realistic-looking toy gun, banned in New York for resembling a real firearm, alongside a brightly colored toy gun that complies with state regulations. Photo courtesy of the Attorney General’s Office
By Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor
October 31, 2024
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As Halloween approaches, New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a consumer alert on Tuesday, cautioning businesses and online retailers against selling realistic-looking toy guns in violation of New York law. The warning serves as a reminder that toy guns sold in the state must be brightly colored or made entirely of transparent or translucent materials to prevent confusion with real firearms.
“Realistic-looking toy guns have led to tragedies in our communities, and that is why they are banned in New York,” said Attorney General James. “Toy guns sold in New York should look exactly like a toy — brightly colored or completely translucent — to avoid being mistaken for a real weapon that can cause serious harm. Retailers selling realistic-looking toy guns as part of a costume are not making Halloween fun; they are violating the law.”
New York’s General Business Law prohibits retailers from selling imitation guns that appear realistic by being black, dark blue, silver or aluminum-colored. Violations carry penalties of up to $1,000 per item.
The Attorney General’s Office encourages parents and consumers to stay alert to any realistic-looking toy guns that may be sold in stores or online with shipping to New York. Consumers who encounter such items are urged to report them by filing an online complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.
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