Mass. voters will decide whether to keep the 2024 gun law
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Question 9 is asking Massachusetts voters whether to keep or repeal the state's 2024 firearms law.
- A yes vote keeps the law in place.
- A no vote repeals it.
Why it matters: The law, Chapter 135, added several new layers of gun control in Massachusetts when it was signed two years ago.
- Privately made firearms, like 3D-printed "ghost guns," require serial numbers.
- School administrators and health providers can initiate the "red flag" system and petition courts to remove guns from dangerous people.
- Semi-automatic rifles and shotguns can only be owned by those 21 years old and up.
State of play: Supporters say the law updated rules for newer firearms technology and strengthens tools to prevent suicide.
- Opponents cite constitutional concerns, compliance and training costs and burdens on local police.
The law also limits carrying in schools, polling locations and government buildings.
- It classifies assault-style firearms and requires additional training and electronic registration.
- Training topics include suicide prevention, use-of-force law and conflict avoidance.
Zoom in: The question is a referendum on a law already in effect, not a proposal for new rules.
- Gov. Maura Healey signed it in July 2024 after lawmakers approved it.
- Gun-rights advocates collected enough signatures to put the repeal question on the ballot.
Between the lines: Repeal wouldn't erase the bulk of Massachusetts' existing strict gun rules, including licensing, safety training and the earlier assault weapons ban.
By the numbers: A MassINC poll from September found 70% would keep the law, 18% would repeal it and 11% were undecided.
What's next: The state registration and serialization deadline arrives Oct. 28, six days before the election. (Mass.gov)