New York Note: Hochul Urges Federal Gun Ban, Adams Vetoes Council, Council Immigration Legislation, Client Spotlight

August 4, 2025

Hochul Calls for National “Assault Weapon” Ban

Following the tragic mass shooting in Manhattan this past week, Governor Kathy Hochul urged federal lawmakers to strengthen national gun safety laws. The gunman entered a Midtown corporate office armed with an M4 style assault rifle, killing four individuals, including an off-duty NYPD officer, before ending his own life. Governor Hochul emphasized that while New York maintains some of the strongest gun regulations in the country, weak federal laws allowed the shooter to legally purchase the weapon in Nevada and transport it across state lines. She called for unified national standards to close loopholes and prevent future tragedies.

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Adams Vetoes City Council’s Rejection

Mayor Eric Adams has vetoed the City Council’s vote to block zoning changes for Bally’s proposed $4 billion casino at Ferry Point in the Bronx. Adams claims the decision was necessary to give the Bronx a fair opportunity to compete for a state casino license. Mayor Adams emphasized potential benefits including job creation and more than $600 million in community investment. Councilmember Kristy Marmorato, who led the opposition, criticized the veto as dismissive of neighborhood concerns. The Council now has ten days to attempt an override, which would require at least 34 votes.

NYC Council Immigration Fraud Protections Become Law

City Council legislation aimed at combating immigration legal services fraud officially became law on Thursday, after Mayor Eric Adams declined to take action within the required 30-day review period. Under New York City law, if the mayor does not sign or veto a bill within 30 days, it automatically becomes law. The new legislation, covering Intros 205-A and 980-A, increases penalties for fraudulent legal service providers and requires the city to launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign. Council members say the law is intended to protect immigrant communities from exploitation and ensure better access to trustworthy, ethical legal assistance.

Client Spotlight: Wonder – Food Delivery and Takeout

Wonder, a Manhattan-based single-kitchen food hall concept, has opened a new location at 3780 Broadway in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan. The space will feature approximately 20 restaurant brands operating from a single kitchen, offering a diverse menu all under one roof. Known for its innovative delivery and takeout model, Wonder sees roughly two-thirds of its business through delivery, with around 10% of customers dining on-site. Its system allows diners to mix and match items from multiple restaurant concepts in a single order, all without additional fees. Following recent acquisitions of Grubhub and Blue Apron, Wonder has continued its expansion across the Northeast, with new locations in Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and now Washington Heights in upper Manhattan.

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