This is always an issue that brings about great debate and I for one don't see a solution that will work. I a retired US Marine and I do believe that if I want an semi-automatic weapon, it is within my rights. I do believe that every purchase should be after a background check and that guns should be registered with a ballistic sample on file for appropriate authorities to see. I don't believe that a state (NY) can or should pass laws that states that guns that have been purchased by an individual can be seized for any reason from a law abiding citizen. If you come into my house try to take my guns that I worked to pay for we will have an issue.
For reference on how well gun laws work. The city of Chicago has some of the toughest gun laws in the US. As of yesterday, the year was 15 days old and they have had 25 homicides of which 23 involved guns. The criminals aren't reading the laws it seems. What will change?