#3DExpress: NY Bill for 3D Printer Background Check Reintroduced

In this week’s 3DExpress, learn about the reintroduced NY bill that would require a background check for anyone who wishes to buy a 3D printer. A controversial topic that has been revived for the 2025–2026 Legislative Session. Next, Forward AAM will be joining forces with RP American to ensure its continued operation in North America. Meanwhile, researchers have found a way to scan bridges to track damage, while LEHVOSS will be introducing new materials. Last but not least, engineers are seeking to find new materials that could replicate meat and fat for 3D printed food. Happy reading and have a great weekend.

NY Bill Would Require Background Check for Anyone Buying a 3D Printer

Ghost guns, or unmarked, untraceable firearms, are increasingly scrutinized by police departments over the world, as well as politicians, after a number of high-profile cases involving them, such as Luigi Mangione. This in turn has put 3D printers in the spotlight as one of the ways to make these weapons. As such, a New York state senator, Jenifer Rajkumar, has reintroduced a bill, named Assembly Bill A2228, to require a criminal background check for anyone who purchased a 3D printer capable of making guns for the 2025 – 2026 Legislative Session. The proposal is a controversial one, and perhaps for good reason, 3D printer makers have criticized it for its general tone which would put a burden on all interested in 3D printing, including an increasing number of schools, while lawmakers stress the need to find ways around growing difficulties in regulating guns. There doesn’t seem to be an answer one way or the other, but it will be interesting to see how the case evolves and how it will ultimately affect 3D printer sales in the state.

Photo Credits: Office of the New York State Attorney General

Forward AM Joins Forces With RP America

2024 was a turbulent year for Forward AM. In the middle of the year, the company broke away from BASF through a buy-out and was able to operate as an independent brand, but turbulence arose at the end of the year. The supplier of 3D printing materials had to file for insolvency and is currently undergoing restructuring. A new partnership with RP America should now ensure that the North American market can continue to be served. RP America is a sales and service provider that has also proven itself in the AM sector and will ensure the availability of Forward AM solutions in the USA, Canada and Mexico.