Gov. Maura Healey issued a formal commendation to Toby Leary, owner of Cape Gun Works, commending his dedication to preserving the rights and liberties of Massachusetts citizens. Leary, who is leading a campaign to repeal a firearms reform law, received the citation shortly after the campaign garnered over 90,000 signatures, enough to place a referendum on the statute before voters in 2026. Despite the citation, Healey had previously blocked an attempt to immediately suspend the law, angering Second Amendment advocates.
Healey’s office stated that the citation was requested by a constituent, and that they fulfill all such requests. Leary, however, was surprised by the citation, considering the governor’s opposition to the firearms reform law repeal. While Healey has defended the law as a measure to increase public safety, Leary and supporters argue that it infringes on the rights of firearm owners and gun shops.
The citation comes amidst a contentious debate over gun laws in Massachusetts, with Leary leading efforts to repeal the reform. He views the citation as potentially indicative of remorse from Healey for implementing the law, especially in light of the significant number of supporters for the repeal campaign.
The award has sparked discussion among supporters and opponents of the gun law, with some commending Healey for her stance on gun reform while others question the sincerity of the citation given the ongoing battle over firearms legislation in the state.
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