The Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine (SAM) has announced plans to file a lawsuit against the state following Gov. Janet Mills’ decision to let a bill instituting a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases become law without her signature.

The governor, who has collaborated with the Alliance’s executive director, David Trahan, on gun policy issues recently, opted neither to veto nor to sign the bill, effectively allowing it to pass.

Trahan expressed his surprise and disappointment over the governor’s decision, highlighting the significant impact he believes the new law will have on both public safety and the local economy.

“It impacts potential victims of crime, our economy, and outfits like Kittery Trading Post, Old Town Trading Post that will be severely impacted,” Trahan told News Center Maine.

He added, “We might as well say we’ll never have another gun show in Maine.”

While the new law has sparked controversy and legal action, Bloomberg-funded supporters claim that it will save lives by reducing violent crimes and suicides in Maine.

“Waiting periods before firearm purchases becoming law today builds on our victory from last week – both which are crucial steps forward to keep Maine safer from gun violence,” said Alisa Conroy Morton, a volunteer with the Maine chapter of Moms Demand Action in a press release obtained by GunsAmerica.

Mills this week also vetoed a bill that sought to ban the possession and sale of bump stocks and auto sears.

But last week she signed legislation to require background checks for all advertised sales and purchases at gun shows. The state will also spend $127.4 million to create a “violence prevention office.”

In a statement explaining her neutral stance on the waiting period bill, Gov. Mills (D) expressed her hope that the law would achieve its intended purpose.

Mills wrote, in part, “I hope it can be implemented to accomplish its intended goal of preventing suicide by firearm without overburdening our outdoor sports economy and the rights of responsible gun owners and dealers.”

Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine is actively seeking donations to help fight this waiting period law. Those interested should send money to:

• SAM ILA
• 205 Church Hill Road
• Augusta Maine 04330

In the memo line put “Challenge 72 hour.”

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