New York Passes Handgun Exemption For the first time in years both houses of the New York state legislature have approved pro-gun legislation. The Senate passed S-2742A, providing an exemption allowing supervised possession and use of a handgun at a target range by persons at least 14 years of age, by a vote of 56-4. The assembly companion bill, A-11864, passed 131-12. The bill now goes to Governor Pataki to sign. Urge him to do so by writing, calling or e-mailing: Governor George E. Pataki, State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224; phone: 518-474-8390; e-mail.