Rochester, N.Y. – Supporters of the New York Safe Act rallied at City Hall Wednesday afternoon. The law, passed in January, includes an expansion of the state’s assault weapons ban, limits on ammunition and a requirement that mental health professionals report potentially dangerous clients.
“People shouldn’t get shot,” said Mayor Tom Richards, speaking to the crowd. “I personally am sick of dealing with the issue. I’m sick of dealing with the issue of gun violence and I’m perfectly happy making the accommodations this act causes us to make.”
The city faces a higher rate of gun violence than surrounding communities. Some people who attended the rally shared their personal experience of losing loved ones to shootings.
“The SAFE Act is revolving around gun violence, especially assault rifles. My son was killed with an AK-47,” said Nina Becoates.
Protesters of the gun law showed up at the event. At times they heckled speakers. But some also spoke one-on-one with the gun control supporters.
“The New York SAFE Act is unconstitutional and something’s got to be done,” said Yvonne Tando.
“We don’t support the New York SAFE Act because we don’t believe it will do anything to make the people of New York State safer,” said Eric Carlston.
