Maine Senate Bill LD1867

Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/25
• Refer: 5/1/25

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.