Gun rights advocates in Massachusetts are taking steps to challenge a recent gun bill signed into law by Governor Maura Healey. The bill, which aims to crack down on “ghost guns” and expand red flag laws, has sparked controversy among gun owners. The Gun Owners’ Action League, the state affiliate of the National Rifle Association, has filed a referendum petition with the Secretary of the Commonwealth to potentially repeal the law through a ballot question in 2026.
Attorney General Andrea Campbell is currently reviewing the petition to determine if it meets constitutional requirements for a referendum. Gun rights advocates have criticized Campbell for seeking input from gun control organizations, accusing her of bias. They have also filed a lawsuit challenging specific aspects of the law, claiming it places undue burdens on firearms retailers and residents seeking new firearms licenses.
In response, the Healey administration has praised the law as a significant step in improving gun safety in the state. The legislation was passed in response to a Supreme Court decision affirming citizens’ right to carry firearms for self-defense. Gun rights advocates, however, believe the law infringes on their civil rights and are committed to fighting against it through legal channels and potential voter referendum. The outcome of this ongoing dispute will have implications for gun ownership laws in Massachusetts.
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