More than 250 workers are estimated to be affected by the closure of the RemArms plant in Ilion, New York.
Gun manufacturer RemArms, previously known as Remington Arms, will close its manufacturing facility in Ilion, New York, next year, a decision that Republicans are blaming on Democrats’ anti-gun policies.
“I am writing to inform you that RemArms, LLC has decided to close its entire operations at 14 Hoefler Avenue, Ilion, NY 13357 (the ‘Ilion Facility’),” the company announced in a letter sent to union officials on Nov. 30, according to the local newspaper, the Utica Observer-Dispatch. “The Company expects that operations at the Ilion Facility will conclude on or about March 4, 2024. The Company did not arrive at this decision lightly.”
The layoffs will take place between March 4 and March 18.
Remington is the oldest gun maker in the United States. Founded in Ilion, New York, the company has been manufacturing firearms in the village since 1816. Several generations of families have worked at the plant.
“The loss of revenues to the entire community will have concerning effects going forward for the progress of Ilion and Herkimer County,” Vincent Bono, chairman of the Herkimer County Legislature, told the local newspaper. “The impact of the livelihoods of over 250 employees is a serious concern to our community.”
Past Troubles
In 2021, Remington announced plans to move the company’s headquarters to Georgia. The letter mentions that Remington has “found an environment in Georgia that supports and welcomes the firearms industry.”
Commenting on the letter, New York state Sen. Mark Walczyk, a Republican, blamed “Albany Democrats and their failed policies” for being responsible for the closure of the facility, according to a Nov. 30 statement.
“Governors Cuomo and Hochul signed laws such as S7196-2021, the Gun Industry Liability Law, and the costly effects of the gas ban have pushed another good business out of New York State. I’ve opposed these shameful policies from the beginning and it’s disheartening to see the Mohawk Valley suffer the consequences of the least friendly business climate in the nation,” he said in the statement.
“My heart goes out to the families affected by this closure as the announcement hits just before the holidays. My office remains ready to assist those impacted in any way.”
