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David Marsters, a resident of Sabattus, Maine, is pushing a controversial proposal that is certain to frustrate gun control advocates. The retired cop is arguing that every head of household in the town be required to have a gun in his or her home.
According to the Bangor Daily News, Marsters believes that by enacting such legislation, "it would provide and protect safety of the city." On Tuesday, the Sabattus selectmen will meet to hear his proposal.
The former law enforcement officer told the outlet that a similar law has worked well in Marsters, Ga.
"I’ve been reading about a Georgia town, Kennesaw," Marsters told the Daily News during a recent interview. "Since 1982, they’ve had an ordinance requiring all homeowners shall be armed and ready to go at all times"
And it seems Marsters has thought through the details of his plan. As far as exemptions go, those who have religious restrictions and individuals with mental illness would not fall under the requirement. He's hoping the proposal is accepted by local leaders and placed on the docket for consideration at the town's June meeting.
The local resident, who is active in politics, has lived in the area for a few years. While the crime rate in Sabattus isn't high, he believes that more guns is the key to cracking down on the crime that does exist.
Marsters decried gun control advocates as being misled, telling the Daily News that guns are not to blame for violence. He also warned that the move to take away firearms could lead to other fundamental rights being eroded, like the freedom of the press to report on important events.
But while Marsters is hopeful his gun law will be adopted, local officials predict it will be rejected. Police Chief Anthony Ward told the Daily News that the Second Amendment affords Americans gun rights, but that an "unsafe environment" could be created if people are forced to have weapons.
Town Manager Andrew Gilmore also weighed in, noting his opposition to the proposed requirement.
"Compelling someone to own a gun is a new one to me in post-Colonial times," he said.
Marsters' plea will be heard at tonight's meeting.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments section.
(H/T: Bangor Daily News)
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