Maybe. In November 2026, Massachusetts voters will decide whether to repeal the state’s sweeping new firearms law, H.4885, also known as “An Act Modernizing Firearm Laws.” Governor Maura Healey signed this legislation in July 2024, and it took effect that October. Gun rights advocates collected over 90,000 signatures to place a veto referendum on the 2026 ballot—more than double the roughly 37,000 required. This is the first firearms-related veto referendum in Massachusetts history, and the outcome will directly affect every gun owner in the Commonwealth.
What Did H.4885 Actually Change?
H.4885 is one of the most significant updates to Massachusetts gun laws in over a decade. The law made several major changes. First, it expanded the state’s existing assault weapons ban by broadening the definition of “assault-style” firearms, effectively banning more firearm types than the previous law covered. It also raised the minimum age to own a semi-automatic rifle or shotgun to 21.
Second, the law requires the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS) to develop and maintain a real-time electronic firearms registration system. All firearms must be registered with the owner’s personal and licensing information.
Third, H.4885 expanded Massachusetts’ red flag laws (formally called Extreme Risk Protection Orders) to allow healthcare providers and school administrators to petition a court for firearm removal if they believe someone poses an imminent threat. The law also applies to individuals who don’t yet possess a firearm.
Fourth, the law bans ghost guns—untraceable, homemade firearms, including those made with 3D-printed parts—and criminalizes possession of rapid-fire conversion devices like bump stocks and trigger modifiers. It also prohibits carrying firearms in schools, polling places, and government buildings, and mandates live-fire training for new license applicants.
How Did the Referendum Get on the Ballot?
The Gun Owners’ Action League (GOAL) filed a referendum petition in August 2024, shortly after Governor Healey signed H.4885. The Civil Rights Coalition, chaired by Toby Leary of Cape Gun Works, led the signature-gathering effort. The coalition filed 93,229 signatures, of which 78,707 were certified as valid—far exceeding the 37,287 needed to place the question on the ballot.
To suspend the law until voters decided, the coalition needed roughly 49,700 signatures. However, on October 2, 2024, Governor Healey signed an emergency preamble that put the law into effect immediately—three weeks ahead of schedule. That move blocked any attempt to suspend the law through the referendum process. The law remains in full effect while Massachusetts voters wait for the November 2026 ballot.
Understanding Your Ballot: Yes Means Keep, No Means Repeal
This is where things get confusing—and it matters. The ballot question is worded so that a “YES” vote keeps the law in place. A “NO” vote repeals the law. If you want to get rid of H.4885, you need to vote “No.” If you want the law to stay, you vote “Yes.” Read the question carefully before marking your ballot.
Should You Comply Now or Wait for the Vote?
This is the question we hear most from gun owners across Eastern Massachusetts, and the answer is straightforward: comply now. H.4885 is currently the law. The emergency preamble ensured it took effect in October 2024, and it will remain enforceable regardless of what happens at the ballot box in November 2026. If the referendum succeeds in repealing the law, the changes would take effect after the vote. But until then, violating any provision of H.4885 could result in criminal charges.
The stakes here are real. Waiting and hoping for a repeal is not a legal defense. If you’re unsure whether your firearms, accessories, or licensing status comply with the current law, talk to an attorney who handles Massachusetts firearms cases.
Get Help Understanding Your Rights
Attorney Matthew Peterson represents gun owners throughout Eastern Massachusetts on firearms licensing, compliance, and defense matters. If you have questions about how H.4885 affects your firearms, your license, or your rights, contact the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson at 617-391-0060 to schedule a consultation.
