In a new move that’s stirring up debate, a Republican lawmaker from Maine has proposed repealing the state’s 72-hour waiting period for buying a gun. This law, which came into effect after the tragic mass shooting in Lewiston in October 2023, requires people to wait three days before they can take a firearm home after purchasing it.
The law was passed in the hope that it would help prevent suicide deaths. The idea behind it is that the waiting period could provide a “cooling off” time, helping to stop impulsive decisions in moments of crisis. However, the new proposal to end the waiting period has quickly sparked strong opinions from both sides of the gun control debate.
What is the 72-Hour Waiting Period?
The 72-hour waiting period law requires anyone purchasing a firearm in Maine to wait three full business days before they can take the weapon home. This law was introduced in the aftermath of the Lewiston mass shooting, where a gunman killed 18 people and injured 13 others. The tragic incident raised concerns about gun access and its potential connection to violence.
Despite the law’s intent to prevent such incidents, some argue that it would not have made a difference in the Lewiston case. This is because the shooter already had access to guns before the attack, which means the three-day wait wouldn’t have impacted the outcome.
The Purpose Behind the Waiting Period
While the law was mostly seen as a reaction to mass shootings, its supporters argue that the waiting period is intended to save lives. The idea is that by waiting, individuals going through emotional distress or mental health issues might have time to think twice before making an impulsive decision to buy a gun. Advocates believe that this “cooling-off” period helps prevent suicides, which are a significant concern in Maine.
Gun Rights Groups Oppose the Law
On the other hand, gun rights groups have strongly opposed the law, filing lawsuits to challenge its validity. They argue that the waiting period not only limits gun access but also hurts gun sellers. According to these groups, many gun buyers have turned to neighboring states, where waiting periods are not in place, costing Maine-based gun sellers potential sales.
In fact, some critics argue that the waiting period has made it harder for people to purchase firearms when they need them, particularly for personal defense or hunting.
Background Check Process and the 72-Hour Wait
One of the key elements of the 72-hour waiting period is that it overlaps with the federally mandated background check process. Normally, a background check takes just seconds to complete. However, if there are any issues or questions that arise during the check, the FBI is given three business days to follow up. If the FBI does not respond within this time, the buyer is legally allowed to take possession of the firearm.
While the waiting period serves as a check-and-balance system for background checks, critics argue that the FBI is capable of processing these checks much faster, making the three-day wait unnecessary.
What Does the GOP Proposal Say?
Rep. Billy Bob Faulkingham, the House Minority Leader and the Republican lawmaker behind the bill, argues that the 72-hour waiting period is unconstitutional. He believes that the law infringes on the Second Amendment rights of Mainers, which protect the right to bear arms.
His proposal would repeal the law entirely, removing the waiting period and allowing gun buyers to take home their firearms immediately after purchase, provided they pass the background check.
What’s Next?
As the proposal moves through the legislative process, there will likely be more debate over the effectiveness and fairness of the 72-hour waiting period. Supporters of the law believe it’s crucial for public safety, while opponents argue that it restricts rights without offering clear benefits.
Ultimately, whether or not the law is repealed could have significant implications for gun owners, sellers, and public safety in Maine. The ongoing conversation about gun control continues to divide opinion, with passionate arguments on both sides.
As this bill progresses, it remains to be seen how it will affect Maine’s approach to gun control and public safety, and whether other states might follow suit with similar proposals.
(Source : fox23maine.com)
