Massachusetts and Idaho Put Gun Questions on November Ballot

Voters in Massachusetts and Idaho will consider contrasting gun-related ballot questions in November, highlighting the deep divisions in America's ongoing debate over firearm policy. While Massachusetts voters will decide on upholding a law that restricts firearms, Idaho residents will be asked to choose an official state gun.

In Massachusetts, voters face Question 9, which concerns a 2024 law passed by the Democratic-led Legislature. This law mandates that all firearms be serialized and registered with the state, and it expands a ban on “assault-style” weapons. The measure is on the ballot because opponents gathered enough petition signatures to force a referendum. The law took effect immediately due to an emergency provision signed by Democratic Gov. Maura Healey, a move that has drawn criticism from gun rights advocates who argue it violates their rights by requiring registration before the public has voted.

Supporters of the Massachusetts law, including the Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, contend that it provides a legal pathway for gun ownership while implementing safety measures. The legislation also addresses “ghost guns” lacking serial numbers, devices that convert firearms to rapid-fire capability, and expands a “red flag” law to allow healthcare providers and school administrators to petition courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk.

Massachusetts is one of the few jurisdictions to enact a comprehensive gun registry, following Hawaii and the District of Columbia. Six other states have registration requirements for certain types of firearms. Proponents argue that registries aid law enforcement in solving crimes and tracking illegal gun sales, while opponents express concerns about potential data breaches and the risk of stolen information being used by criminals to target gun owners.

Meanwhile, in Idaho, the Republican-led Legislature placed a nonbinding question on the ballot asking voters to advise on designating an official state gun. Idaho has one of the highest rates of household gun ownership in the nation. Some Republican lawmakers see the ballot question as a way to increase voter turnout.

Residents like Neill Goodfellow, who is preparing to vote for the M1 Garand, acknowledge that the historical significance of the options may not be widely known among Idaho voters. The measure was sponsored by Idaho House Majority Leader Jason Monks with the intention of sparking discussion and encouraging participation, especially as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

If a clear winner emerges from the Idaho vote, lawmakers are expected to introduce legislation in their 2027 session to make the chosen firearm official. Previous states, such as Utah and Arizona, have already designated official state firearms, selecting iconic models with historical connections to their regions.