Legislation has been proposed by two upstate New York Republican lawmakers that would allow judges who have pistol permits throughout the state to carry guns into courtrooms “to protect themselves and others.”

The legislation was crafted in response to gun reforms passed in 2022 that labelled courts as “sensitive locations” and banned firearms from the premises.

In a statement, the bill sponsors, Sen. George Borello and Assemblyman Joseph Giglio, argue that “rural judges have the right to defend themselves and others.”

Part of the argument for the bill is that rural courtrooms don’t have the same level of security that city courtrooms have which could leave court staff vulnerable.

According to the Office of Court Administration, New York state court officers are peace officers that are allowed to and are trained to carry a firearm. Currently outside law enforcement personnel may carry a firearm or in a courtroom. On the Borello-Giglio legislation, OCA has no comment as they have not seen the proposed legislation.

The bill (S7633) would need to go through committee and receive a floor vote in both legislative chambers. The Legislature is expected back in Albany for the beginning of the typical legislative session in January. Democrats maintain a supermajority in both legislative chambers.