Maine Legislature Approves Sweeping Gun Safety Legislation After Deadliest Shooting in State History
The Maine Legislature has approved sweeping gun safety legislation nearly six months after the deadliest shooting in state history, marking a significant step towards making communities safer from violence.
The legislation includes background checks on private gun sales, waiting periods for gun purchases, and criminalizing gun sales to prohibited individuals. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills and the Democratic-led Legislature pushed for these measures following the tragic shooting that claimed 18 lives and injured 13 others.
House assistant majority leader, Rep. Kristen Cloutier, expressed pride in the meaningful steps taken to enhance community safety. The approved bill strengthens the state’s yellow flag law, increases background checks for private gun sales, and criminalizes reckless gun sales to prohibited individuals. Additionally, the bill allocates funds for violence prevention initiatives and establishes a mental health crisis receiving center in Lewiston.
While the governor is set to sign the approved bill, two other bills establishing a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases and banning bump stocks are under review. However, a proposal for a red flag law, allowing family members to petition for the removal of guns from individuals in psychiatric crisis, did not see action.
The legislative session ran through the night and into the morning, culminating in the approval of the gun safety legislation. The shooting in Lewiston on Oct. 25, carried out by an Army reservist, served as a tragic backdrop for the session, prompting lawmakers to take action.
Survivors of the shooting had mixed feelings about the proposed laws, with some supporting legislative action while others expressed skepticism. Critics, including Republican Sen. Lisa Keim, accused Democrats of capitalizing on the tragedy to push through longstanding gun legislation.
Despite the controversy, Democrats emphasized the importance of responding to constituents’ calls for action to prevent future attacks. Gov. Mills underscored the necessity of taking steps to address gun violence, stating that doing nothing was not an option.
The approval of the gun safety legislation represents a significant milestone in Maine’s efforts to enhance community safety and prevent future tragedies.