Moderate
Maine Gun Laws 2026
Maine gun law rating: D+ (Moderate). Ranked #28 out of 50 states for gun law strength. Key policies: permitless carry (Yes), red flag law (No), assault weapons ban (No).
D+
Overall Grade
#28
State Rank (strength)
Permitless Carry: Yes
Constitutional Carry
Red Flag: No
ERPO Law
Key Gun Law Provisions
| Provision | Status |
|---|---|
| Permitless (Constitutional) Carry | Yes |
| Red Flag Law (ERPO) | No |
| Assault Weapons Ban | No |
| Universal Background Checks (private sales) | No |
| Waiting Period | None |
| Magazine Capacity Limit | None |
Overview
Maine has a unique "yellow flag" law — instead of a red flag law, it requires a mental health evaluation before firearms can be temporarily removed. This was enacted after the Lewiston mass shooting (2023, 18 killed) — the deadliest in Maine history.
2026 Political Impact
The Lewiston shooting (October 2023) was a defining moment. Republicans blocked a red flag law but the compromise yellow flag law represents the political middle ground in this libertarian-leaning state.