One can only wonder where we’re headed, chasing that perceived threat, with concealed weapons. Putting concealed weapons in certain public areas crosses the line where law enforcement is expected to handle, and is trained for.

Using good reasoning doesn’t it make good sense that permit holders should have the same training? Under current Maine law, which could become weaker soon, I qualify for a conceal permit. I have had no formal training whatsoever; and there are many others like me. Don’t believe it when they say that all permit holders are well trained. They aren’t.

The real safety issues should start with more stringent qualifications, not less. Certain rights should come with certain justifiable requirements.

On another note, play out a scene where a member of the House or Senate gets into a heated argument and, either one not knowing whether the other is carrying, both brush their coats back for some casual persuasion. Interesting scenario. And, one of them is like me, no formal training!

I’m not implying that this would ever happen there, but you get my point. Maybe in a bar would be a better example, there could be more, but all are “perceived.” The “intimidation factor” could be real no matter where.

Gary David, Lisbon Falls