BOSTON, MA — A significant legislative measure is poised to enhance Massachusetts’ gun control laws by targeting the proliferation of ghost guns and expanding prohibited zones for carrying firearms. The comprehensive bill, a result of months-long negotiations among House and Senate Democrats, is expected to be presented to Governor Maura Healey for approval as early as Thursday.
The agreement, concluded on Wednesday evening, marks a pivotal update to the state’s firearm regulations, impacting ghost guns, firearm licensing, dealer inspections, and more. House Speaker Ronald Mariano highlighted the bill as “the most significant gun safety legislation that Massachusetts has seen in a decade.”
Ghost guns, firearms assembled from individual parts and lacking serial numbers, have been increasingly used in crimes across the state, according to public safety officials. In response, the proposed legislation mandates all firearms, including frames and receivers, to carry a serial number and introduces stern penalties for the possession, creation, and transfer of untraceable firearms.
The bill also proposes an expanded list of locations where firearms are forbidden, including schools, polling places, and government buildings, with exceptions for current and retired law enforcement officials. Additionally, municipalities may opt to maintain permissions to carry firearms in their local government buildings.
Another critical aspect of the new legislation is the enhancement of the state’s red flag law. Originally allowing family members and law establishments to request courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat, the new bill extends this provision to include school administrators and licensed healthcare providers.
“The essence of our legislative effort was to ensure that those who regularly interact with individuals can petition for the removal of firearm rights if someone is in crisis,” expressed Rep. Michael Day, lead House negotiator on the bill. Notably, the final compromise omits a previous proposal that would have given employers similar petitioning powers.
Further provisions in the bill seek to modernize and streamline the firearm licensing process, redefine assault-style firearms, tightly regulate firearm modifications, enhance firearms data reporting, and align standards related to carrying or hunting under the influence with those for driving.
In an addition to public safety measures, the bill introduces a new offense for discharging a firearm and striking an occupied building or dwelling and enhances penalties for shooting within 500 feet of a dwelling without permission.
Interestingly, this legislative push comes amidst criticisms from the Republican minority and gun owner groups who argue that the bill infringes on Second Amendment rights. Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr was the only Republican to support a version of the bill in either legislative chamber.
On the other hand, supporters like Ruth Zakarin, executive director of the Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, have been vocally supportive. “This is a crucial step towards ensuring the security of Massachusetts residents and upholding our commitment to prevent gun violence,” Zakarin commented, reflecting on the recent surge in gun-related incidents in the state.
As the legislative path of the bill reaches its climax, the urgency and breadth of its provisions reflect a significant stride in Massachusetts’ ongoing effort to curb gun violence and enhance public safety, setting a possible precedent for other states wrestling with similar issues. In a state known for its progressive stances on various issues, this comprehensive approach to gun control remains a topic of robust discussion and debate.