Stockton Springs, Maine – As a gun owner and hunter, Brian Sterner supports further safe gun legislation in Maine. He believes that these laws, which aim to reduce gun usage in cases of suicide, domestic violence, mass shootings, and other crimes, are not a threat. Sterner also criticizes the unfounded fear among responsible gun owners that such legislation will lead to the eventual elimination of gun ownership. He argues that this fear is propagated by gun manufacturers and groups like the NRA.
One specific measure that Sterner supports is the 72-hour rule, which imposes a waiting period for gun purchases. He believes that this waiting period allows individuals intending to buy a gun ample time to reflect on their decision and any potential actions they were planning to take with the gun. Sterner emphasizes the importance of this waiting period in preventing gun-related suicides. Additionally, he advocates for mandatory background checks on all gun purchases, asserting that such checks will deter illegal gun acquisitions.
Another aspect of safe gun legislation that Sterner endorses is the implementation of Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs). These orders restrict gun possession for individuals with mental health conditions that pose a danger to themselves or others. Sterner believes that ERPOs provide an effective mechanism for removing firearms from those who may be a risk.
Furthermore, Sterner supports the elimination of the sale of military-style semi-automatic assault weapons. Although these weapons are lightweight and may be attractive to hunters for that reason, Sterner argues that their elimination would not impede hunters from pursuing their activities using alternative firearms of the same caliber.
Sterner wants to emphasize that none of the mentioned legislation inhibits responsible and safe gun owners like himself from purchasing and owning firearms. He advocates for a balanced approach to gun legislation that prioritizes public safety and the well-being of communities.
In conclusion, Brian Sterner, a gun owner and member of The Gun Safety Work Group at The First Church in Belfast, expresses his support for further safe gun legislation in Maine. Sterner believes that these measures, such as the 72-hour rule, mandatory background checks, ERPOs, and the elimination of military-style semi-automatic assault weapons, are necessary to address issues like suicide, domestic violence, mass shootings, and other crimes while still respecting the rights of responsible gun owners.