Federal Judge Halts Maine’s New 3-Day Gun Purchase Waiting Period Amid Legal Battle!

A federal judge has temporarily halted Maine’s new law that required a three-day waiting period for buying firearms.

This decision came after gun rights groups challenged the law, arguing it violated the U.S. Constitution.

Background of the Law

Maine’s Democratic-led government introduced the 72-hour waiting period among other gun safety measures following the state’s deadliest mass shooting on October 25, 2023, by Army reservist Robert Card, who carried an assault-style weapon and opened fire at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and the Schemengees Bar and Grille restaurant in Lewiston, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.

The Legal Challenge

Gun rights groups filed a lawsuit against the law, claiming the three-day waiting period has been detrimental to gun shows and gun sellers, costing them sales that went to neighboring states.

Judge’s Ruling

Chief U.S. District Judge Lance Walker granted a temporary injunction, pausing the law’s enforcement. He stated that the plaintiffs presented a strong argument that the 72-hour waiting period is unconstitutional.

Walker described the waiting period as “indiscriminate” because it applies to all purchasers, regardless of whether they pose a threat to themselves or others.

Reactions to the Decision

David Trahan, executive director of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, praised the ruling, stating,

“All the court did was reinforce what we have been saying all along: to require an arbitrary waiting period for a person to exercise a freedom is unconstitutional.”

On the other hand, Nicole Palmer, executive director of the Maine Gun Safety Coalition, expressed disappointment, noting that similar waiting periods have been upheld in other states and emphasizing that such laws aim to prevent impulsive acts of violence and suicide.

State’s Response

Attorney General Aaron Frey’s office defended the law in court, presenting evidence that waiting periods can deter impulsive purchases and save lives.

Frey stated, “Given the obvious public safety benefits, we intend to continue defending this common sense law and will be considering next steps in the days to come.”

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Next Steps

The temporary injunction will remain in effect while the legal challenge proceeds. The state may appeal the decision or seek other legal avenues to reinstate the waiting period.

Meanwhile, the debate over balancing Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns continues in Maine and across the nation.

Conclusion

The federal judge’s decision to block Maine’s 72-hour firearm purchase waiting period highlights the ongoing tension between gun control measures and constitutional rights.

As the legal battle unfolds, both sides remain steadfast in their positions, underscoring the complexity of addressing gun violence while respecting individual freedoms.

Reference

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