New York Legislators Push for 3D Printer Restrictions to Prevent ‘Ghost Gun’ Production

Governor Kathy Hochul and other lawmakers in New York are pushing for 3D-printer manufacturers to prevent the production of components used to make “ghost guns” — untraceable firearms that can be printed privately, bypassing background checks.

At a press conference, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced that two 3D-printing companies have voluntarily agreed to implement technology that would stop the creation of guns with their printers. Additionally, a digital design firm has committed to removing certain firearm CAD files from its offerings. Proposed legislation aims to make it illegal to sell or possess gun CAD files without a license and would mandate that 3D-printer companies block the printing of firearms. Similar measures have been introduced or enacted in states like Colorado, New Jersey, and Washington.

Bragg emphasized the absurdity of allowing the printing of lethal weapons, stating, “You can’t print counterfeit money. We don’t let you do that. So why would we let you print lethal guns?”

The issue gained renewed attention following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024. Luigi Mangione, the accused shooter, allegedly had a 3D-printed gun in his possession when arrested. A 2025 report highlighted how simple it was to research, print, and use the weapon linked to Thompson’s death.

Bragg and Justin Wagner, managing director at Everytown for Gun Safety, have also reached out to YouTube regarding content related to 3D-printed firearms. They noted that the platform had previously adjusted its algorithm and age-restricted some content, although Bragg described it as an “ongoing conversation.” In 2024, YouTube took steps to limit certain firearms content, and Bragg expressed gratitude for those changes.

However, there are concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed legislation in curbing the spread of ghost guns. The accessibility and low cost of 3D printers — available for just a few hundred dollars — make it easy to produce firearms and their components. Gun CAD files are also readily available online, with California currently suing two websites that provide instructions for making guns and accessories.

Moreover, the issue extends beyond high-profile cases; recent studies indicate that the rate of firearm suicides rises with every 20 ghost guns recovered per 100,000 people.