Massachusetts Red Flag Law

The Massachusetts red flag law, also known as the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law, allows for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals who are believed to pose a risk to themselves or others. The law was enacted in 2018 following a school shooting in Parkland, Florida, and is designed to prevent gun violence.

Under the law, family members, household members, and law enforcement officials can petition a court for an ERPO against an individual who poses a risk of causing harm to themselves or others with a firearm. If the court finds that the individual is a danger, it can order the temporary seizure of their firearms.

The law also allows for a hearing to be held within 10 days to determine if the firearms should be returned to the individual or if the ERPO should be extended for up to a year.

The Massachusetts red flag law is one of many such laws that have been enacted across the United States in recent years as a way to address gun violence.