The liberty to keep and bear arms is no “second-class right,” the Supreme Court tried to make clear. Then again, too, New York Democrats aren’t getting the message. How else to explain Albany’s latest scheme to infringe on the right to bear arms in the Empire State? The idea is to require warning signs at all gun shops in New York State alerting potential buyers of the risks of owning a firearm. Governor Hochul is weighing whether to sign the bill.

The legislature would require retailers to warn customers that “access to a weapon or firearm in the home” runs the risk of woes including “the risk of suicide,” “death during domestic disputes,” and even “unintentional deaths to children.” The mandatory signage would urge any would-be gun buyers “experiencing distress and/or depression” to “call the national suicide prevention life-line.” Anything, in short, to prevent a sale.