On Nov. 4, we will be asked to vote on this referendum: “Do you want to allow courts to temporarily prohibit a person from having dangerous weapons if law enforcement, family or household members show that the person poses a significant danger of causing physical injury to themselves or others?”

We have seen too many children die, too many others traumatized and too many communities torn apart by mass shootings — most recently in Minneapolis and closer to home in Lewiston.  Yet we continue to do nothing and hope for a different result.

We often say “It takes a village.” Now is the time to empower the village. This measure gives families, communities and law enforcement a way to act before tragedy strikes.

This Nov. 4, I urge Mainers to vote “Yes” — for prevention, protection and a safer future.

MaryAnn Brown
South Portland