Maine Judge Temporarily Halts 72-Hour Gun Purchase Waiting Period

The law, enacted after the 2023 Lewiston mass shooting, is paused following a federal judge's ruling that it likely violates the Second Amendment.

Chief U.S. District Judge Lance Walker issued a preliminary injunction against Maine's 72-hour waiting period for firearm purchases, citing likely constitutional violations.
The waiting period law was part of a broader set of gun safety reforms passed after the 2023 Lewiston mass shooting, which left 18 dead and 13 injured.
Gun rights groups argued the law infringes on Second Amendment rights by delaying firearm access even for individuals who pass background checks.
Supporters of the law emphasized its role in reducing impulsive acts of violence and suicide, noting similar laws exist in other states.
Maine's attorney general plans to appeal the ruling, defending the law as a necessary public safety measure.