Some people are making guns with 3D printers. A new law seeks to cancel their print jobs

New York has enacted the first-of-its-kind law requiring 3D printers sold for homes and businesses to include blocking technology that would prevent the production of firearms. The measure, signed last month, seeks to thwart ghost guns by analyzing every design submitted for printing, cross-checking it against a digital library of firearm parts, and rejecting matches. California lawmakers are considering a similar bill. Authorities note about one-third of states already regulate build-it-yourself firearms lacking serial numbers and background checks, but this plan targets the equipment rather than the maker, potentially establishing industry standards for printers.

Proponents argue the technology could keep untraceable weapons off the streets by preventing the printing of gun components. Critics warn about privacy implications and potential rights concerns if automated rejections sweep legitimate designs. The push follows a DOJ report showing a drastic rise in privately made firearms recovered in crimes—from roughly 1,600 in 2017 to nearly 27,500 in 2023—though the document does not specify how many came from printers. Supporters say the plan could set new industry standards and serve as a model for other states pursuing tougher gun controls.