Stop New York's Attack on 3D Printing
5 hours ago
- #Free Speech
- #Surveillance
- #3D Printer Regulation
- New York's proposed 2026-2027 budget includes mandates for 3D printer censorware and felony charges for certain design file possession or sharing.
- The policy would require all 3D printers sold in the state to use print-blocking algorithms, despite experts deeming it unfeasible and harmful to innovation.
- Felony charges under the budget could target journalists, researchers, and artists for sharing or possessing files related to firearm parts, chilling free expression.
- The bill imposes face-to-face sales for 3D printers and CNC machines, disadvantaging rural residents and creating barriers to access.
- Technological flaws mean the print-blocking mandate is ineffective, as files can be easily modified to evade detection, while lawful users face surveillance.
- A working group without peer review could be dominated by incumbent manufacturers, leading to anti-competitive practices and enshittification similar to DRM.
- If passed, the New York mandate could set a national or global standard due to the state's large market influence, spreading its negative impacts.
- Urgent action is needed, as the vote may occur next week, and New Yorkers are urged to contact legislators to remove the provision from the budget.