Dear Editor:

Many of your readers are no doubt anxiously awaiting the roll out of Maine’s new concealed firearm law LD 652, commonly known as “Constitutional Carry.” This law allows anyone who can legally own a firearm to carry it concealed without a permit and takes affect on Oct. 15. It does not do away with Maine’s permit system and only pertains to someone carrying within the borders of Maine.

To those folks, I would like to offer some advice. There are a number of places that you cannot carry concealed under this law. There are requirements about notifying law enforcement if you are approached as well as what can be concealed. In the last case, you cannot have a loaded long gun in your vehicle and think it allowable through this bill. As with any law it is our duty to know the details, ignorance of the law is not a defense.

Carrying a firearm in public, either open or concealed, comes with a certain number of decisions that you will have to make, the biggest is: “Will I use it to defend myself and others?” If the answer is no, then you might as well leave it home.

Gun Owners of Maine has started an online resource for firearm safety and I urge everyone to go to www.safer-maine.org to take a look. This site has a video training course that will go a long way towards making your concealed carry experience a safe one.

Please remember that carrying or handling a firearm anywhere is a great responsibility but especially in public. Get training, know the rules and above all be safe.

Linc Sample

Boothbay Harbor