When someone you love is spiraling into crisis, you shouldn't have to wait for the worst to happen. Maine’s current Extreme Risk Protection Order law—often called the “yellow flag” law—has saved lives by allowing police to intervene when someone poses a danger to themselves or others. But for too many families, it hasn’t been enough.

Governor Janet Mills recently announced her opposition to expanding this law through a measure that would let family or household members directly petition the court to temporarily remove firearms from a loved one in crisis. Her reasoning? That involving law enforcement from the start is safer and simpler. But countless Mainers who’ve begged police for help—only to be turned away—know it’s not that simple.

We believe families deserve another path.

We believe in the power of prevention. And we know from tragedies like the Lewiston shooting that just having a law on the books doesn’t guarantee it will be used in time. When red flags are waving, family members are often the first to see them—and they need a direct way to act.

The proposal to allow loved ones to seek protection doesn’t replace police involvement; it adds another vital option. It acknowledges that law enforcement may not always have the full context or capacity to intervene. And it trusts that Maine families, many of whom have lived with the daily fear of suicide or violence, are capable of navigating the process when the stakes are this high.

We respectfully urge Governor Mills and Maine leaders to listen to the families this expansion would empower. Our communities are safest when people can speak up and seek help—without unnecessary barriers or delays.

Don’t close the door on this critical safety tool. Stand with those who’ve lost someone too soon, and those still fighting to keep their loved ones safe.

Sign to support stronger red flag protections in Maine—because the people closest to danger should never be powerless to stop it.