By Heather Grossmann
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
The City Council shot down the sale of toy guns in New York City on Monday, voting in favor of a law that would fine retailers up to $5,000 for selling the banned merchandise.
Citing one incident where a 16-year-old was shot by police while waving a water gun, City Council went a step beyond the ban that has already been in place since 2003 and increased penalties by 500 percent.
The bill will also give the Department of Consumer Affairs the power to shutter stores that do not cooperate.
“They are trying to make money by putting children, families and police officers at risk,” City Council Speaker Christine Quinn said of merchants that have continued selling toy guns despite the law.
“Obviously, individuals who sell imitation guns do not have great care for New Yorkers.”
A recent City Council investigation showed that despite the 2003 ban, 20 percent of toy stores are still selling illegal toy guns.
“This will save lives,” Council Member Al Vann, the bill’s primary sponsor, said at an afternoon press conference.
