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Politics · October 20, 2026

U.S. Supreme Court declines to weigh Maine's 72-hour waiting period

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The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal challenging Maine's 72-hour waiting period for firearm purchases. The decision leaves in place a First Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that lifted a previous injunction against the law. The waiting period was enacted in 2024 following the Lewiston mass shooting that killed 18 people. While the case now returns to the U.S. District Court for further proceedings, the law remains enforceable during the ongoing litigation. Supporters argue the law prevents impulsive violence and suicides, while opponents, including firearm retailers and gun rights groups, contend it violates Second Amendment rights and lacks historical precedent.

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Reported across the spectrum

  • The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal regarding Maine's 72-hour gun purchase waiting period.
  • The First Circuit Court of Appeals previously ruled that the law is likely constitutional.
  • The law was passed in 2024 following the October 2023 mass shooting in Lewiston.
  • The case will return to the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine for further proceedings.

Reported by only some outlets

  • Governor Janet Mills allowed the bill to become law without her signature, stating she felt conflicted.
  • A 2026 health department report noted 283 suicide deaths in Maine in 2024, 55% of which involved firearms.
  • Judge Lance Walker originally issued a temporary injunction against the law, calling it 'indiscriminate'.
  • The waiting period would not have stopped the Lewiston gunman, who purchased his rifle three months in advance.
  • Republican Bobby Charles, a candidate for governor, opposes the waiting period.

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