Miramant’s bill would increase firearm safety with required training

Posted: March 17, 2017 | Senator Miramant

AUGUSTA — A bill by Sen. Dave Miramant, D-Camden, would require gun buyers to show proof that they have taken a firearm safety course before they may purchase a firearm.

The bill — LD 501 “An Act to Increase Firearm Safety” — received a public hearing Friday before the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee.

The legislation requires anyone attempting to purchase a firearm to provide proof that they have taken an approved firearm safety course or have successfully completed military firearms training. A person can also meet this requirement by showing proof of having taken the handgun safety requirement for a concealed carry permit.

“There are too many tragic and preventable deaths happening in our state,” said Sen. Miramant. “While I respect the right of Mainers to own guns, we need to act to protect citizens from the unintentional carelessness of untrained gun owners.”

Miramant first brought the bill at the request of a Knox County Sheriff Deputy. The need for the legislation was illustrated further after a 22-year-old woman from Thomaston was shot by her boyfriend  at a Shaw’s Plaza parking lot in Bath.

Mary Anne Royal, a resident of Winterport, was among those who testified in favor of the bill.

“It’s not the criminal element [of firearm safety] I’m worried about. It’s the individuals that carry a concealed weapon without proper training,” said Royal. “This bill is a step in the right direction.”

LD 501 faces further action in the Criminal Justice and Public Safety and votes in the House and Senate.

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