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A bill is being worked on that would take guns out of the hands of people in crisis

A bill is being worked on that would take guns out of the hands of people in crisis. Advocates point to domestic violence murders and suicides while critics warn of infringing on constitutional rights and Maine's low crime rate.

AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine could allow police to take guns from certain individuals as part of Democratic-led calls for firearm control.

The Legislature's Judiciary Committee is set to work on the bill Wednesday.

Supporters including Portland's interim police chief say Maine must keep firearms out of the hands of people in crisis. Advocates point to domestic violence homicides and Maine's rising firearm suicides.

Critics warn of governmental overreach infringing on constitutional rights and say Maine's crime rates are low.

Gun control efforts have faced odds in the largely rural state, where hunters tout a long history of responsible gun ownership.

Voters defeated a question on universal background checks backed by former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2016. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills has said Maine should respect the people's will on the issue.

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