Massachusetts gun law referendum faces voter decision amid safety concerns

Massachusetts voters face a referendum, known as Question 9, to decide whether to repeal ‘An Act Modernizing Firearm Laws’. Signed by Governor Maura Healey in July 2024, the legislation introduced several significant changes, including regulations on ‘ghost guns’, expanded definitions for ‘assault-style firearms’, and mandatory registration of all firearms in a state online portal.

The law also expanded ‘red flag’ provisions, allowing healthcare workers and school administrators to petition for firearm confiscation, and implemented stricter requirements for firearm safety courses. Additionally, it banned guns from polling places and government buildings.

Parallel to the legislative debate, a 2026 public safety survey by the Downtown Boston Neighborhood Association indicates growing concerns among residents. The survey of nearly 400 people found that 56% of respondents feel less safe in downtown Boston and on Boston Common than they did at the start of the year. While drug activity and homelessness remain primary concerns, the number of respondents citing violent crime as a concern rose from 7% in 2025 to 20% this year.