Pro-Gun Activists Make Voices Heard Over Maine Gun Bills

By Tom Knighton

AP Photo/Brennan Linsley

Maine is a fairly pro-gun state.

That makes sense, seeing how it’s a relatively rural state where guns are routinely used not just for hunting, but also for self-defense. Rural folks tend to understand the need to be as self-sufficient as possible on such matters.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean legislators in the state aren’t always on the lookout to restrict guns in some way, shape, or form. This session is no different, but at least pro-gun voices are being heard.

Dozens of gun-owning residents and advocacy groups, including the National Rifle Association, weighed in Friday on a pile of gun control bills ranging from prohibiting the sale of high-capacity magazines to instituting 72-hour waiting periods for gun buyers.

Critics filled hearing rooms at the Maine Statehouse to speak emotionally about the dangers of governmental overreach, while supporters inspired by Democratic wins in November called for compromise on gun safety legislation. Lawmakers also weighed bills to regulate 3D printed guns and punish those who store a loaded firearm that a child then uses.

Among the measures is a universal background check proposal similar to one rejected by voters in 2016. Democratic Governor Janet Mills has said lawmakers should respect the wishes …Read the Rest

Source:: Bearing Arms