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LD 953

An Act To Change The Definition Of "Machine Gun" In The Maine Criminal Code

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donald Ardell and 7 co-sponsors

LD 953 redefines "machine gun" in Maine law to match federal standards, narrowly rejected 76-71 after "Ought Not to Pass" recommendation.

Placed in the Legislative Files. (DEAD)
#firearms #machineguns #possession
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 953

Legislative bill overview

LD 953 proposes to modify Maine's criminal code definition of "machine gun" to align with federal law standards. The bill would change how Maine legally defines automatic weapons, potentially affecting enforcement of state firearms regulations and how state law interacts with federal definitions.

Why is this important

How states define "machine gun" directly impacts criminal penalties, law enforcement authority, and which weapons fall under automatic weapons restrictions. The definition determines what firearms are illegal to possess and how violators are prosecuted, making this a substantive change to Maine's weapons law.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: Changing the definition may broaden or narrow which weapons qualify as illegal machine guns, affecting both law enforcement prosecutions and citizen compliance
  • Federalism alignment vs. state autonomy: Aligning with federal definitions reduces state-level discretion to set stricter standards if Maine chooses
  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue Maine's existing definition provides stronger protections; supporters may contend federal alignment prevents legal confusion

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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