A proposed firearms control bill in Massachusetts has drawn sharp criticism from gun rights organizations, with one group even advising gun owners to consider leaving the state if the legislation passes. The National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR) argues that the bill, known as An Act of Modernizing Firearm Laws, would make Massachusetts the "most anti-gun state in the country."

The extensive bill proposes significant changes to existing gun laws, including mandatory registration of all firearms and feeding devices, raising the minimum age for purchasing semi-automatic rifles and shotguns to 21, restricting concealed carry on private property without explicit permission, and more. NAGR Director of Political Operations, Austin Hein, expressed deep concern, stating the bill effectively "repeals the Second Amendment as we know it."

The NAGR issued a travel advisory in response to the proposed legislation. Hein urged residents to "pack your bags and leave" if the bill becomes law, characterizing the potential impact on gun owners as "untenable." Beyond firearms, the bill also targets related areas, such as prohibiting human silhouette targets at shooting ranges and restricting individuals under 18 from possessing mace or pepper spray. Hein criticized these measures, arguing they leave law-abiding citizens, especially young women, vulnerable.

The inclusion of stun guns under the definition of firearms drew particular ire from Hein, who interpreted it as an attempt to "leave you defenseless." He also condemned the firearm and magazine registration requirement, warning that "registration leads to confiscation." He further criticized a provision that would allow law enforcement to demand permits without cause, likening it to a "stop and frisk policy."

Hein dismissed the ban on human silhouette targets as "silly," questioning the logic behind restricting their use for civilians while permitting it for law enforcement. He also argued that the bill undermines the Supreme Court's Bruen decision, which affirmed the right to carry a weapon in public. The proposed legislation would prohibit carrying firearms on private property without express consent from the owner, effectively reversing the impact of the Bruen ruling in Massachusetts.

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Michael Day, was tasked by House Speaker Ronald Mariano with developing the legislation. Mariano cited the Supreme Court's Bruen decision and ongoing gun violence as the impetus for the bill, expressing hope that it would serve as a model for other states and Congress. Day echoed this sentiment, asserting that neither the Supreme Court nor criminal activity would deter lawmakers from prioritizing public safety.

The bill also seeks to address "ghost guns" by requiring registration and serial numbers for receivers and barrels. Hein criticized this measure as ineffective, arguing that individuals can easily manufacture these components with readily available technology. He concluded by characterizing the bill as the "most anti-gun bill" he's encountered and emphasized the need to defeat it.