HARTFORD, Conn. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong has issued a stern warning to Sturm, Ruger & Co., commonly referred to as Ruger, regarding concerns over their semi-automatic pistols that can potentially be converted into fully automatic weapons. In a letter addressed to the company on Monday, Tong raised alarms over public safety, emphasizing that the ability to quickly convert these pistols into machine guns presents a significant risk. The issue stems from the Connecticut Firearms Industry Responsibility Act, which grants new enforcement capabilities to the Attorney General's office. This legislation empowers the state to take civil action against manufacturers and retailers who fail to implement measures that prevent illegal sales, including to individuals prohibited by law from possessing firearms. Under this law, the focus is on ensuring that gun products are designed in a manner that prevents their easy conversion into illegal firearms. Tongs communication with Ruger was firm, stating, Ruger is on notice. They know, we know, and criminals know that their RXM pistol can be easily converted to an illegal, lethal fully automatic weapon. By highlighting the potential for conversion, the Attorney General suggests that the company has a responsibility to modify its products to enhance safety or risk facing legal repercussions. In the letter, he raised concerns about Rugers design practices and their implications for public safety. Data from 2022 indicates a troubling trend, with 31 machine gun conversion devices traced back in connection with law enforcement investigations and several hundred devices recovered by police in Connecticut. These conversion devices have been found in various locations across the state, including public parks and residential neighborhoods, further illustrating the broader safety concerns outlined by Tong. Moreover, Tong noted that while other companies, like Glock, have amended their models to reduce the risk of conversion, Ruger has not made similar changes to their RXM pistol. This inconsistency in safety measures has sparked serious concerns regarding their commitment to responsible manufacturing. He has requested that Ruger provide a statement regarding its plans for the RXM line, as well as preserve documentation related to the conversion of its firearms to fully automatic versions. This includes records on the use of converted Ruger products in crimes and the financial implications of these actions. The stakes are high, as Tong makes it clear that he will not hesitate to take legal action if Ruger does not comply with regulatory standards intended to protect public safety. His assertion implies a potential showdown between state regulatory measures and corporate practices within the firearms industry. As the situation develops, companies must navigate the evolving landscape of regulations while simultaneously addressing consumer safety concerns. The implications of this scenario extend beyond just Ruger, as it reflects a larger, ongoing dialog within the firearms community about the responsibilities of manufacturers to prioritize safety over profit. Understanding how these regulations will influence production methods and market dynamics will be crucial for industry players moving forward.