http://www.airsoft2day.com/news/655-bil ... earms.html
This bill would clarify that “airsoft” guns constitute firearms and therefore are subject to this State’s strict laws regulating the sale, possession, and use of firearms. Airsoft guns are replica firearms used primarily for sporting and recreational purposes, including military games. They use compressed-air, gas, or spring or electric-operated pistons to shoot non-metallic pellets or balls. Because these guns shoot plastic rather than metal pellets, it is not clear under current law whether they are considered firearms similar to “BB” guns. Therefore, the bill revises the definition of a firearm by specifying that any air gun, spring gun, gun utilizing a gas or electric-operated piston, pistol, including one that is shoulder-fired, or similar weapon which ejects a pellet or ball made of polymer or metallic-coated polymer constitutes a firearm. Under this revised definition, airsoft guns would be considered firearms and regulated similar to BB guns. For example, a person would have to be at least 21 years of age to purchase an airsoft handgun or 18 years of age to purchase airsoft rifles. The person also would have to obtain a permit to purchase the gun, pass a criminal background check, and not be subject to any disqualifications for firearms ownership
just glancing through the abstract this kind of reminds me of the British laws on airsoft