New York’s self-defense laws are failing women.
Unlike most states, New York restricts access to pepper spray by banning online purchases, requiring a weaker formula, and prohibiting UV dye—a key feature that helps law enforcement identify attackers.
At Safely, we believe everyone deserves the right to protect themselves with effective self-defense tools. That’s why we’re pushing for change.
📢 Sign the petition to demand fairer self-defense laws in New York!
New York’s Outdated Pepper Spray Laws Are Creating a Dangerous Market
New York is one of only four states that prohibit online pepper spray orders, making it harder for women to access protection. But that’s not the only issue:
- Weaker Pepper Spray Formula – New York limits the potency of pepper spray, making it less effective than sprays sold in most other states.
- No UV Dye Allowed – In most states, pepper spray includes UV dye to help law enforcement identify attackers after an assault—but New York bans it.
- Limited Purchasing Options – Since pepper spray must be bought in person, women in rural areas have fewer options for purchasing it.
A Growing Underground Market
We've received multiple reports of women buying pepper spray illegally from unverified sellers in the subway system. This not only puts them at legal risk but also raises serious safety concerns—there’s no way to know what’s actually inside these sprays or whether they will work in a real emergency.
These laws aren’t protecting women—they’re forcing them into unsafe situations just to access basic self-defense tools.
Why This Matters for Women’s Safety
For women, personal safety isn’t just a policy debate—it’s a daily concern.
- College students in New York can’t order pepper spray online, even though campus safety is a major concern.
- Runners can’t access stronger self-defense sprays to carry on solo workouts.
- Women working late shifts in cities and rural areas have limited options to protect themselves.
Women shouldn’t have to jump through legal hoops just to feel safe.
How You Can Help Change the Law
We’re calling on New York lawmakers to modernize self-defense laws and allow:
- Stronger pepper spray formulas that match what’s available in other states
- Online purchases so women can buy pepper spray no matter where they live
- UV dye in pepper spray to help law enforcement track down attackers
Sign the petition today and demand fairer self-defense laws in New York!
Read more about the movement: SafeWise Coverage
Final Thoughts: Help Make New York Safer
We believe in empowering women with the tools they need to stay safe. But right now, New York’s laws are making that harder—not easier.
- Sign the petition and take a stand for better self-defense laws.
- Share this article to spread awareness and bring attention to this issue.
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