PA lawmakers urge passage of 'Red Flag Laws' in wake of Maine mass shooting

Many in the Commonwealth, and across the nation, are now looking for lawmakers to push for the passage of more Red Flag Laws in the wake of Wednesday’s mass shooting in Maine that left 18 people dead.

Under Red Flag Laws, an individual that looks to be a threat to themselves or the public, and holds a license to a weapon, can have that weapon taken away from them.

Over a dozen lives were tragically taken Wednesday evening in Lewiston, Maine when accused murderer Robert Card reportedly fired multiple rounds from an AR-15 rifle at a bowling alley and restaurant.

Many lawmakers are now coming together in hopes of making a difference, and preventing future tragedies, with new legislation.

“The government’s first responsibility is to guarantee the safety of the people,” says Adam Garber, the campaign director for Ceasefire PA.

“Everyone should be able to live a life free from gun violence so everyone can thrive because they feel and are safe.”

Red Flag Laws would allow law enforcement and family members the right to temporarily remove a weapon from an individual deemed to be a threat to themselves or the public.

According to reports, Card allegedly received mental health care at an institution just days before Wednesday’s massacre.

“We cannot sugarcoat this anymore. This is real, this is our reality.”

Currently, in the Commonwealth, a Red Flag Law bill has passed the state House, but it has yet to be voted on in the Senate.

For more on Red Flag Laws and where they stand in Pennsylvania, click here.

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