AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) – Maine lawmakers are preparing to return to the State House in the wake of a tragic mass shooting in Lewiston that has left the state in mourning. The recent events have reignited the debate over gun control policies and safety measures within the state.
Lawmakers are facing the difficult task of navigating through potential policy discussions surrounding gun control. The tragedy has sparked intense conversations and strong opinions on how best to introduce gun reform legislation, exposing a deep divide between political parties.
House Majority Leader Rep. Maureen Terry (D-Gorham) reflected on the current state of affairs, stating that the table is open for discussions and that her caucus is willing to consider a wide range of gun policy proposals in the upcoming session.
Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Rep. Billy Bob Faulkingham (R-Winter Harbor) expressed skepticism about certain gun reform bills, arguing that mental health reform might have been more effective in preventing the tragedy in Lewiston. He emphasized the need to examine the process that allows individuals with mental health issues to purchase firearms.
Despite their differences, both party leaders have found common ground on policy ideas, such as allowing individuals to voluntarily put themselves on a “do not buy” list for gun shops. As the new legislative session approaches, it is clear that Maine lawmakers will be engaging in robust debates over gun reform.
In a previous session, a bill to tighten background checks and a proposed ban on rapid-fire gun modifications had failed in the Senate. However, the recent mass shooting is likely to influence the upcoming discussions on gun policy within the state.