The Fraternal Order of Police, Maine’s largest police union representing more than 1,000 law enforcement officers statewide, announced its formal opposition to Question 2, the proposed “Red Flag” law on the November 4 ballot.
FOP Executive Director Michael Edes said the union is “steadfastly against Question 2” and is strongly encouraging voters to reject the measure, calling it a “disaster waiting to happen.”
The Maine FOP said it carefully analyzed and considered the provisions of the proposal and determined it would not make the state safer. Instead, the union argued, the measure could increase risks to the public, families and law enforcement officers.
If enacted, the union said Question 2 would significantly increase the chances of law enforcement being involved in dangerous and violent encounters. The proposal would also eliminate mandatory confirmation from a qualified mental health professional before removing a person’s firearms, relying instead on the opinions of non-professionals.
Under the current Yellow Flag law, the standard of proof is “clear and convincing.” The proposed Red Flag law would lower that threshold to “preponderance of evidence,” which the FOP says is a much lower burden.
The union also warned of increased danger to family members, the public and law enforcement, along with greater opportunities for misuse of the law by family members or others. Enforcement, the union noted, would create a “huge drain” on already strained police resources.
Under Question 2, police would only become involved at the most critical and dangerous stage — when firearms are being physically removed. Unlike the current Yellow Flag law, individuals subject to the proposed Red Flag restrictions would likely remain in their homes or communities rather than protective custody, heightening the potential for volatile situations.
“The incidents involving the deadly use of force by law enforcement will increase,” the FOP statement said.
The union reiterated its support for the current Yellow Flag law, which it described as a system that works well in Maine. The existing law, the statement said, ensures due process, involves mandatory mental health participation and provides compassionate intervention for individuals in crisis while allowing for the safe and secure removal of firearms.
