Maine’s New Three-Day Waiting Period for Gun Purchases Challenged in Court
A recent Supreme Court ruling that has made it more difficult to enact gun safety legislation is now threatening Maine’s new three-day waiting period for gun purchases. The rule, which was enacted by the Legislature last year, is facing a lawsuit that alleges it violates the Second Amendment.
The lawsuit was filed by Andrea Beckwith, who runs self-defense classes for victims of domestic violence, Rep. James White, who owns J. White Gunsmithing, and other Maine gun stores and owners. They argue that the waiting period infringes on their Second Amendment rights as it forces people to wait to acquire their firearm, even if they have already passed a background check.
The case was heard by U.S. District Court Judge Lance Walker on Tuesday, where arguments were presented by both parties. The judge did not issue a ruling after the hearing but said he would make a decision in the coming days.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued that the waiting period is excessive and treats every gun purchaser as a potential threat. They also raised concerns about individuals needing immediate access to firearms for self-defense.
The ruling in this case may be influenced by a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in New York Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, which set a precedent that any limitations on Second Amendment rights must be “narrow, definite, and objective.” The judge seemed persuaded by this argument, questioning the broad application of the waiting period to every citizen.
While the Attorney General’s office defended the waiting period as a way to curb impulsive firearm purchases, the plaintiffs argued that it unfairly restricts their constitutional rights. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for gun laws in Maine and beyond.
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