As Maine voters head to the polls today, one ballot measure stands out: Question 2, a proposed red flag gun law that could empower family members to temporarily remove firearms from individuals in mental health crises. Inspired by the 2023 Lewiston mass shooting that claimed 18 lives, the initiative has sparked intense debate over public safety, mental health, and Second Amendment rights.
What Is Maine’s Question 2?
Question 2 asks voters whether to replace Maine’s current “yellow flag” law with a red flag law used in over 20 other states.
Current Law (Yellow Flag):
- Only police can initiate firearm removal.
- Requires protective custody and a mental health evaluation.
- Described by law enforcement as cumbersome and time-consuming.
Proposed Red Flag Law:
- Allows family members or household members to petition a court directly.
- Enables temporary gun removal without mandatory custody.
- Aims to prevent tragedies by acting faster in crisis situations.
“People who are having a mental health crisis need help, not easy access to guns.” — Arthur Barnard, father of Lewiston victim Artie Strout
The Lewiston Shooting: A Turning Point
On October 25, 2023, Army reservist Robert Card opened fire at a bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others before taking his own life.
Key Warning Signs Missed:
- Card was hospitalized for two weeks in July 2023 after exhibiting paranoia and homicidal ideations.
- Fellow reservists warned: “I believe he’s going to snap and do a mass shooting.”
- Family and military officials knew of his deteriorating mental health.
- Despite clear red flags, no firearms were removed under Maine’s yellow flag law.
An independent commission later concluded there were multiple missed opportunities by both the U.S. Army and local law enforcement.
Opposition: “Maine Isn’t California”
Despite emotional appeals, Question 2 faces strong resistance from gun rights groups, hunters, Republicans, and even some Democrats — including Governor Janet Mills.
Key Arguments Against:
- Maine has low crime and high gun ownership — laws should reflect rural reality.
- Yellow flag law was “carefully crafted” with bipartisan support in 2019.
- Red flag laws risk abuse and due process violations.
- Creates confusion between two overlapping systems.
“Question 2 would create a new, separate and confusing process that will undermine the effectiveness of the law and endanger public safety.” — Gov. Janet Mills (D)
Legal Fallout from Lewiston Continues
Victims’ families have filed federal lawsuits against the U.S. Army and Department of Defense, alleging negligence.
A September 2024 DoD watchdog report criticized the Army for:
- Failing to report violent threats by service members.
- Specifically citing Robert Card as a preventable case.
“Failure to consistently report violent threats could increase the risk of additional violent incidents.” — DoD Inspector General Report
Final Thoughts: A State Divided
Maine stands at a crossroads. Question 2 isn’t just about guns — it’s about mental health, family intervention, and trust in the system.
Will voters honor the Lewiston 18 with stronger protections? Or preserve a law they believe balances safety and liberty?
The decision is in Maine’s hands today.