AUGUSTA — A bill to allow towns to ban firearms at voting places and government meetings is moving ahead, but faces steep odds.
Maine Public reports that the Legislature’s State and Local Government Committee voted 8-2 Monday to recommend that lawmakers reject the legislation.
Some Democrats joined Republicans in opposing a Democrat’s bill, which heads to the Senate.
Supporters said firearms at public meetings and at the polls could intimidate individuals or escalate tensions.
Lawmakers have long shied away from limiting the right to bear firearms guaranteed by Maine’s Constitution.
Critics questioned how municipalities could enforce such bans without metal detectors.
Lawmakers are also considering a Democrat’s bill to temporarily remove firearms from individuals proven to pose a danger. Scores of opponents called it unconstitutional while supporters say it’s a reasonable compromise.
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