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Bill

Bill

LD 1104

An Act To Limit The Liability Of Persons Who Provide Firearm Hold Agreements

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Amy Arata and 5 co-sponsors

Maine bill to shield firearm custodians from civil liability when temporarily holding others' guns through informal agreements, rejected by legislature.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
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Bill Summary · LD 1104

Legislative bill overview

LD 1104 would have limited legal liability for individuals or entities who voluntarily hold firearms on behalf of others through informal agreements. The bill would have provided legal protection to "firearm hold" custodians from civil lawsuits arising from injuries or damages caused by those held firearms, provided they acted without gross negligence.

Why is this important

Firearm hold agreements are informal arrangements where someone temporarily stores another person's gun—potentially used in situations involving domestic violence concerns, suicide prevention, or personal crises. The bill addresses whether people who help in this way should face legal consequences if something goes wrong with the stored firearm. This intersects public safety, personal liability concerns, and harm-reduction practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability shield scope: Critics argue limiting liability could discourage responsible storage practices and accountability if held firearms are accessed improperly or cause injury
  • Suicide prevention vs. liability: Supporters contend that fear of lawsuits discourages voluntary firearm removal during mental health crises, while opponents worry liability limits reduce safety incentives
  • Gross negligence standard: The "gross negligence" threshold is contested—supporters see it as reasonable protection, critics view it as too permissive for serious negligence cases

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

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