Lewiston, Maine – Following a tragic shooting that took the lives of 18 individuals at a bowling alley and bar in Maine last year, lawmakers in the state made a commitment to reevaluate existing gun laws. This week, after extensive deliberation, new restrictions on firearms sales were approved, although a proposal to enhance the removal of guns from individuals considered a danger did not pass.
In a state where gun ownership is prevalent, the approval of stricter gun laws in Maine, even among some Democratic legislators, is a significant shift. The deadliest shooting in the state’s history on October 25 prompted a change in perspective among lawmakers.
Recent legislative measures in Maine include expanding background checks to cover private gun sales advertised online platforms like Facebook, as well as instituting a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases. Additionally, a bill banning bump stocks, accessories that increase firing rates of semi-automatic weapons, was passed.
Despite these advancements, a proposed “red-flag” measure, allowing for the removal of guns from individuals deemed a threat, was not voted on by state legislators. The bills are awaiting the signature of Governor Janet Mills.
The push for stricter gun laws in Maine was fueled by a public outcry following the tragic shooting last year. Advocates argued for a red-flag law that would prevent individuals likely to harm themselves or others from possessing weapons. However, the state’s current “yellow-flag” law poses challenges in the removal of firearms, requiring a high threshold for intervention.
An independent commission investigating the shooting emphasized the need for law enforcement to follow through with the yellow-flag process effectively. Despite the passing of adjustments to the yellow-flag law, some advocates believe more substantial changes are necessary to prevent future tragedies.
Gun rights advocates criticized the new restrictions, viewing them as out of touch with Maine’s gun-owning traditions. However, the advocacy for stricter gun laws persisted, with healthcare providers in Lewiston organizing rallies in support of gun safety measures.
While progress has been made in Maine’s gun legislation, advocates stress the importance of not solely reacting to recent tragedies but implementing measures that can prevent future violence. The failure to pass the red-flag bill highlights the ongoing debate surrounding gun control in the state.