Maine’s New Red Flag Law Takes Effect Saturday. Here’s What To Know

Maine’s new red flag law will take effect Saturday, introducing changes to how the state handles situations where someone may pose a risk to themselves or others.

According to WGME, the law was approved by voters as Question 2 on the November 2025 ballot. It allows family members, as well as law enforcement, to petition a court for an extreme risk protection order if they believe an individual presents a significant danger of causing physical injury while having access to a dangerous weapon.

If a judge agrees that the risk is credible, the court can order that the person’s weapons be temporarily removed. The law also allows judges to issue an emergency order lasting up to two weeks while a full hearing is scheduled.

The news station explained that this marks an expansion of Maine’s current yellow flag law, which only allows law enforcement to request a risk order and requires a medical evaluation before a petition can move forward. Under the new law, longer term protection orders can be renewed each year if a judge determines that continued restrictions are necessary.

Supporters say the change gives families and authorities another tool to intervene earlier and potentially prevent harm. They argue it could help address situations where warning signs are present but immediate action is needed, WGME reported.

Opponents say the law is unnecessary and raise concerns about due process and possible impacts on constitutional rights. They argue existing laws already provide mechanisms to address dangerous situations.

State officials say the new process will begin being used once the law takes effect this weekend.