Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD1867

Introduced
5/1/25  
Refer
5/1/25  
Engrossed
6/12/25  

Caption

An Act to Prohibit Financial Institutions from Using Merchant Category Codes to Identify or Track Firearm Purchases or Disclose Firearm Purchase Records

Impact

Should LD1867 be enacted, it will modify state regulations concerning the privacy of financial transactions involving firearms. By restricting how financial institutions can categorize and process transactions related to firearms, the bill seeks to eliminate potential stigmatization and economic disadvantages faced by firearms dealers. It further strengthens the legislative protections against the creation of registries or lists that might track firearm ownership or purchases, something which proponents argue is vital for safeguarding Second Amendment rights.

Summary

LD1867 is a legislative act presented to prohibit financial institutions from utilizing merchant category codes to identify or track firearm purchases, effectively aiming to safeguard the privacy of individuals engaging in lawful firearms transactions. The bill establishes clear definitions relevant to firearms, financial institutions, and the parameters around what constitutes a firearm purchase. Its intent is to prevent discrimination against firearms dealers based on the use of specific codes that could segregate them from other retailers, thereby promoting lawful commerce without bias.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD1867 is largely supportive among pro-Second Amendment advocates and gun rights organizations who view the bill as a necessary step towards preserving individual freedoms and preventing unwarranted oversight. Conversely, there is opposition from groups concerned about the implications of loosening financial scrutiny on firearm purchases, arguing it could undermine efforts to manage firearms sales and enhance public safety. This polarized sentiment highlights the broader national debate over gun control and privacy rights.

Contention

One notable point of contention pertains to the bill's potential impact on law enforcement's ability to track illicit firearm purchases. Critics argue that prohibiting the categorization of firearm-related transactions could obstruct efforts to combat illegal arms sales or trafficking, potentially complicating investigative processes. Supporters counter that the bill does not impede lawful oversight, instead reinforcing privacy protections that are constitutionally and ethically justified.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD2238

An Act to Address Gun Violence in Maine by Requiring a Waiting Period for Certain Firearm Purchases

ME LD22

An Act to Impede the Transfer of Firearms to Prohibited Persons

ME LD1451

An Act to Prohibit State and Local Enforcement of Federal Firearms Laws

ME LD624

An Act to Prohibit Government Officials from Maintaining Records Related to Firearms Owners

ME LD2224

An Act to Strengthen Public Safety by Improving Maine's Firearm Laws and Mental Health System

ME LD168

An Act Regarding Criminal Background Checks for the Sale, Transfer or Exchange of Firearms

ME LD943

An Act to Enhance Privacy and Prohibit Shipping Companies from Maintaining Records of Firearm and Ammunition Shipments

ME LD582

An Act to Enhance Certain Penalties for Possession of Firearms by Prohibited Persons

ME LD1696

An Act to Create a Civil Cause of Action for Persons Suffering Damages Arising from the Illegal Sale or Marketing of Firearm-related Products

ME LD2112

An Act to Replace the Money Transmitters Act

Similar Bills

CA AB1587

Financial transactions: firearms merchants: merchant category code.

MS HB1110

Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act; create.

TN SB2223

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 6; Title 29; Title 38; Title 39; Title 45 and Title 47, relative to merchant codes.

TN HB2762

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 6; Title 29; Title 38; Title 39; Title 45 and Title 47, relative to merchant codes.

SD SB81

Prohibit the use of a firearms code for transactions involving firearms, accessories, components, and ammunition and to provide a civil penalty therefor.

TX HB2837

Relating to prohibiting a person or entity from surveilling, reporting, or tracking the purchase of firearms, ammunition, and accessories through the use of certain merchant category codes; imposing a civil penalty.

MO SB216

Creates the Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act

AL HB389

Financial Institutions; to prohibit financial institutions from using a merchant category code to identify firearms transactions; to prohibit disclosure of financial information regarding firearms transactions