The state Legislature in Maine was in a rush to pass a series of gun safety bills following the deadliest shooting in the state’s history. The bills include measures to strengthen the state’s yellow flag law, enhance background checks for private gun sales, and criminalize the reckless sale of guns to prohibited individuals. Additionally, the bills provide funding for violence prevention initiatives and establish a mental health crisis receiving center in Lewiston. The House approved the governor’s omnibus gun safety bill with a 75-68 vote, with a final vote from the Senate needed for it to be sent for the governor’s signature. Two other bills, a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases and a ban on bump stocks, were also endorsed by the House.
Democratic Gov. Janet Mills made it clear in a letter to lawmakers that she was not interested in calling a special session to give them more time to complete their work before the end of the legislative session. Awaiting action was a proposal for a “red flag” law sponsored by House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross, which allows family members to petition a judge to remove guns from individuals in a psychiatric crisis. This proposal differs from the state’s current “yellow flag” law that involves police in the process. Another measure sponsored by Talbot Ross to fund mental health and violence prevention initiatives was awaiting budget allocation. The state of Maine has a strong hunting tradition and a powerful lobby focused on protecting gun owner rights, as evidenced by the rejection of universal background checks for firearm purchases in 2016.
The shooting incident on Oct. 25 that claimed the lives of 18 individuals and injured 13 in Lewiston served as a catalyst for lawmakers to take action on gun safety measures, as constituents were demanding preventive measures to avoid future attacks. Prior to the shooting, the shooter, an Army reservist, showed signs of paranoia and a deteriorating mental state, which were reported to the police by his family members. He had been hospitalized during his training with the Army Reserve and a warning from his best friend about his potential for a mass shooting went unheeded. The shooter ultimately took his own life after the attack. Lawmakers approved the waiting period for gun purchases and voted to ban bump stocks through an emotional debate, responding to the urgency for stricter gun safety measures in the state.
The proposed gun safety measures in Maine come at a critical time when the state grapples with the aftermath of a devastating shooting incident that claimed multiple lives. The passage of these bills signifies a step towards addressing the inherent risks associated with gun ownership and creating a safer environment for the residents of Maine. The focus on mental health initiatives and violence prevention efforts highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues that contribute to gun violence. By implementing stricter gun regulations, Maine aims to prevent future tragedies and protect its citizens from the devastating impact of gun-related incidents. The legislative action taken by state lawmakers reflects a commitment to ensuring public safety and responding to the demands of the community for effective measures to enhance gun safety in Maine.
