Wednesday, August 31, 2022

How intrusive should the government be? Do criminals go to gun stores to buy weapons

New York lawmakers believe they have found a way to reduce firearm trafficking and mass shootings. Approximately 50 legislators penned a letter to Mastercard and American Express, requesting that the companies flag purchases made at gun stores.

Democratic state Senator Zellnor Myrie shared the letter with Gothamistand spoke about leading the effort. Myrie explained that he believed the public would agree with the lawmakers' request.

While credit card companies do not track specific items purchased, they do use merchant category codes designated by retailer type. Mastercard's quick reference booklet notes that purchases made at a gun store fall under the "miscellaneous" or "durable goods" retailer codes. Those two MCCs also include vendors of gas lighting fixtures, musical instruments, fireworks, party supplies, and luggage, to name a few.


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