News

Trump’s Call to Ban Bump Stocks Renews Maine Debate

Trump’s Call to Ban Bump Stocks Renews Maine Debate

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)   Some Maine lawmakers are trying to revive an effort to ban bump stocks in the state, but others say moves at the federal level may make it unnecessary.

President Donald Trump has directed the Justice Department to work toward a nationwide ban on the devices, which allow semi-automatic weapons to mimic machine guns.

Democratic state Rep. Scott Hamann told the Bangor Daily News on Wednesday that he might withdraw his own proposed ban if Washington renders it unneeded, but he was not yet prepared to do so.

Democratic House Speaker Sara Gideon says the Legislature should take up Hamann’s proposal, which has been tabled by the Legislative Council.

Republican leaders in the state Senate say they want to monitor federal action before doing anything at the state level.

Latest Headlines

5 minutes ago in Local

Long Running Pie Contest Draws Big Numbers at Cumberland Fair

Fresh

All proceeds from the Pie Contest are going to benefit the Cumberland Food Pantry.

6 hours ago in Local

Collins Lone Republican to Criticize Job Cut Threat During Gov. Shutdown

A memo this week instructs agencies to use the shutdown as an opportunity to reduce their work forces.

10 hours ago in Local

Images from New Earth-Mapping Satellite Showcase Maine Coast

The pictures, released Thursday, are from a spacecraft that rocketed into orbit from India two months ago.

14 hours ago in Local

Maine to Establish New Life Sciences Center

Governor Mills signed an executive order last week to establish the Life Science Center.

15 hours ago in Local

Woman Seriously Injured in Portland Crash Near I-95

She was taken to Maine Medical Center with injuries.