PORTLAND, Maine - Law enforcement officials were joined by gun control advocates this morning to voice their opposition to a bill that aims to rollback regulations for carrying concealed weapons. LD 652 would allow the carrying of concealed handguns without a permit.
Portland Police Chief Mike Sauschuck describes the measure as a "poor piece of public policy."
"This is something that will negatively impact officers' safety across the state," Sauschuck said at a morning news conference at police headquarters. "It will make our residents less safe in their communities."
The bill's supporters, meanwhile, argue that the current law is unnecessary, and that anyone legally entitled to own a gun should be allowed to carry it concealed from view without the need for a permit.
A legislative committee this afternoon will hear testimony on the bill, which is backed by nearly 100 co-sponsors.