New York is cracking down on illegal toy gun sales — and Walmart is paying the price.
The retail giant has been fined for shipping realistic-looking toy guns to addresses across New York, violating state laws that ban imitation firearms with life-like appearances.
State law prohibits realistic-looking toy guns
Under New York law, toy guns cannot be sold or shipped if they are black, dark blue, silver, or aluminum-colored — colors that make them resemble real weapons. Instead, toy guns must be made from bright, transparent, or translucent materials to clearly distinguish them from actual firearms.
These rules aim to prevent tragic incidents where imitation guns are mistaken for real ones during confrontations.
Walmart settlement follows online gun shipments
An investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office found that:
- Walmart shipped nine imitation guns to addresses in NYC, Westchester, and Western New York
- The guns were sold by third-party sellers on Walmart’s online marketplace
- Investigators were able to purchase and receive one of these illegal toy guns using Walmart’s fulfillment services
As a result, Walmart must pay $14,000 in penalties and $2,000 in fees to the state.
The company is also required to block third-party sellers from listing imitation guns that violate New York law.
A warning to retailers
State officials made clear that New York will hold businesses accountable for illegal sales that put communities at risk.
“Realistic-looking toy guns can put communities in serious danger and that is why they are banned in New York,” said a statement from the Attorney General’s office.
Retailers found in violation can face fines of up to $1,000 per illegal toy gun sold or shipped.
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