Summary
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has enacted new gun legislation aimed at addressing the growing concern over ghost guns and enhancing safety training requirements for gun license applicants. This legislation, which was implemented ahead of its scheduled start date, includes measures to ban ghost guns, strengthen existing gun safety laws, and mandate live-fire training for firearm license applicants.
The new law comes as a response to increasing incidents involving untraceable firearms and aims to bolster public safety in a state already known for strict gun regulations. Key provisions of the legislation include a ban on unserialized firearms, known as ghost guns, and a requirement that individuals demonstrate knowledge of gun safety principles and complete live-fire training before obtaining a license. Additionally, the law expands the state’s “red flag” laws, allowing authorities to temporarily confiscate firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others. The swift implementation of this law has sparked controversy, with gun rights advocates arguing that it infringes on civil liberties and imposes unnecessary restrictions on law-abiding citizens.
Key Provisions of the Legislation
- Ban on Ghost Guns: The law prohibits the possession, transfer, or sale of ghost guns, which are firearms assembled from kits that lack serial numbers.
- Safety Training Requirements: Applicants for gun licenses must demonstrate a basic understanding of firearm safety and complete live-fire training.
- Enhanced “Red Flag” Laws: The legislation expands the criteria under which law enforcement and health officials can petition to have firearms removed from individuals posing a threat.
- Restrictions in Sensitive Areas: Carrying firearms in schools, polling locations, and government buildings is now illegal for non-law enforcement individuals.
Legal Challenges Ahead
The new Massachusetts law is expected to face legal scrutiny, particularly from gun rights advocates who are pursuing a referendum to repeal the measure and have filed lawsuits claiming it violates constitutional rights. The ongoing debate over ghost guns is also being addressed at the federal level, as the Supreme Court is set to hear a case regarding the classification and regulation of these firearms, which could have broader implications for gun legislation across the country.
Can ghost guns be regulated as firearms? The Supreme Court will decide
Oct. 8 / Npr / Explores the legal complexities surrounding ghost guns and the Supreme Court's upcoming decision, providing a thorough examination of both sides of the argument and the broader implications for gun regulation. “ Guns are back to haunt the Supreme Court on Tuesday in a case that fittingly tests the legality of so-called “ghost guns.” They’re called ghost guns because...
Massachusetts governor implements new gun law weeks ahead of schedule
Oct. 4 / Fox News / Highlights the swift implementation of Massachusetts' new gun law, detailing its provisions and the immediate pushback from gun rights advocates, making it a timely and relevant piece amid ongoing debates. “ Gun rights activist Maj Toure is on a mission to educate vulnerable Americans in urban communities about their Second Amendment rights. Massachusetts Gov....