Father of Mass Shooting Victim Urges Lawmakers to Take Action on Gun Control

AUGUSTA, Maine — Lawmakers gathered for their first session since the deadly mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine where 18 people were killed. The session began with a solemn reading of the names of the victims. The shooting has sparked conversations about gun control proposals and potential changes to the state’s yellow flag law.

Arthur Barnard, the father of one of the victims, gave an emotional speech at a gun control rally, urging lawmakers to fix “careless” laws and work together to prevent future tragedies. He emphasized that the goal was not to take away guns, but to do the right thing.

The shooting, which took place at a bowling alley and bar, resulted in 18 deaths and 13 injuries. It also raised questions about the effectiveness of the state’s yellow flag law, which allows a judge to remove guns from someone in a mental health crisis. The shooter, an Army reservist with deteriorating mental health, had previously come to the attention of law enforcement, but no action was taken to remove his firearms.

Lawmakers discussed revisiting the yellow flag law and updating existing gun laws, including background checks. The session began with tributes to the victims and warnings from legislators not to forget the tragedy that occurred.

While gun control remains a divisive issue, there are calls for action from those in support of stricter regulations. Max Zachau, a lifelong Maine hunter, pointed out the stark contrast between the limitations on hunting shotguns and high-capacity magazines in assault rifles. Others, however, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of new laws in preventing gun violence.

In addition to gun control, lawmakers are also considering bills related to Native American sovereignty, abortion rights, and a supplemental budget exceeding $100 million.

The tragic shooting in Lewiston has reignited the debate over gun control and mental health laws in Maine. As lawmakers grapple with the complex issues at hand, they face the difficult task of finding solutions that balance public safety with constitutional rights.