Imagine having to present a certificate of no criminal record when buying a 3D printer. In New York, they’re seriously considering it...
The Atomic Layers: S6E20 (00167)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
Just before the weekend, Gizmodo published an interesting piece of news, which was soon overshadowed by the "scandal" surrounding Bambu Lab's new firmware. While my stance on the firmware-gate is relatively indifferent (as I expressed in my LinkedIn article today), I wouldn’t dismiss the story from Gizmodo so lightly.
The city of New York proposed new regulations that would require background checks for individuals purchasing 3D printers capable of producing firearms or firearm components (essentially, any 3D printer in theory).
The proposed bill, A2228, stipulates that sellers of such 3D printers would be both authorized and obligated to request and obtain criminal history information from buyers. State authorities would have 15 days to review the data and decide whether the purchase could proceed.
These proposed regulations stem from the increasing accessibility of 3D-printed firearms and the associated risks. Notably, concerns have been raised about the ability to manufacture untraceable and unregistered weapons at home.
Instances of 3D-printed firearms being used in crimes have been documented in the past, fueling interest in regulating this area. Statistics indicate that the number of such firearms confiscated on New York City streets rose from 100 in 2019 to 637 in 2022, while incidents involving so-called "ghost guns" nationwide have surged by 1,000% in recent years.
Additionally, last year, the city of Chicago accused firearm manufacturer Glock of failing to take sufficient action to prevent modifications of existing pistols into fully automatic weapons using so-called auto-sears.
President Joe Biden has also addressed the issue, though his administration's efforts thus far have been limited to regulating firearm assembly kits. These actions have not directly targeted 3D printers or private individuals.
The New York proposal has elicited mixed reactions. Critics highlight potential enforcement challenges, particularly for online purchases of 3D printers. They also point to possible unintended consequences and question the effectiveness of such measures.
In the United States, laws regarding 3D-printed firearms vary by state. California treats them like traditional firearms, requiring serial numbers and compliance with specific legal standards, while other states impose stricter regulations or outright bans.
What did I say… I told you this was coming. First, I said it in August, and then again in December 2024:
People are outraged that Bambu Lab is locking them out of Orca Slicer, but meanwhile, the U.S. government may soon mandate registering every 3D printer with an official agency.
Atomic Layer from the Past:
01-20-2021: Meddah Hadjar decided to not extend his contract as CEO of SLM Solutions and was replaced by Sam O’Leary.
News & Gossip:
Today, the entire AM world is still grappling with Bambu Lab's "firmware gate." VoxelMatters reported on a statement from the Chinese manufacturer clarifying the issue. The company denied claims that it would remotely disable printers, restrict functionality, or block third-party filaments. Bambu Lab emphasized user autonomy, introducing an optional LAN mode with advanced configurations for users seeking more flexibility. But first and foremost, Bambu Lab does it to increase the safety of users. (Just like Walter White did “for the family”).
Thing is, Louis Rossmann published on YouTube a video with this title: “Bambu private keys leaked less than 24 hours after announcement 🤣”.
And this is one of the comments under the video. I think it sums up the whole drama: “Bambu forgets that a lot of the people who use their products have engineering backgrounds and survive on self hatred and caffeine. Bambu will lose that battle 10 times out of 10”