Debate in Maine House on 72-hour waiting period for firearms

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) - Debate in the Maine House Thursday over a proposal that would do away with the state’s 72-hour waiting period for firearm purchases.

Opponents of the waiting period call the current law unconstitutional arguing a right delayed is a right denied.

They say in situations like domestic violence, the waiting period could put someone at greater risk.

“These aren’t prohibited people,” stated Rep. Jennifer Poirier, R-Skowhegan. “They’re not individuals flagged by the system. These are law-abiding Mainers who followed every legal requirement yet are still told that they must wait regardless of their circumstances and more importantly of their second amendment rights in the U.S. Constitution.”

Supporters say the waiting period is intended to help prevent suicides in Maine and they argue it’s working.

They also note the issue is being challenged in court, and they want an update from the Attorney General’s Office on the status of that case.

“So at the conclusion of that case, if there are changes that need to be made to that law, the Legislature can address them at that time, but in the meantime, the committee felt it was appropriate to defer to the ongoing legal process,” commented Rep. Amy Kuhn, D-Falmouth.

The proposal was amended to review later based on the Attorney General’s update on the court’s findings, and that passed the House, 77 to 72. It now moves to the Senate.

Just last week the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit ruled the measure is likely constitutional and can take effect while the case continues.