Nearly two thirds of gun deaths in the U.S. are suicides (CDC data), and our tiny state is not immune to this epidemic. It may be a surprise to your readers to learn that one New Hampshire resident dies by suicide by gun every four days. In New Hampshire, 90% of all gun deaths are suicides. When a person is in crisis, loved ones and law enforcement are often the first to recognize that the person is exhibiting signs of threat to themselves or others.

In early January 2020, New Hampshire Representatives will be voting on HB687. This bill is unofficially named a “red flag” bill. HB687 would allow loved ones or law enforcement to petition a court for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO). HB687 could save the life of a person in crisis by having the court issue the ERPO. When a person is found to be posing a significant risk to themselves, or others, with a firearm, that person would be temporarily prohibited from purchasing or possessing a gun and required to turn over their guns to law enforcement while the order is in effect.

We have an opportunity in passing HB687 to join 17 other states who have enacted similar “red flag” bills. There are robust due process protections included in HB687 making it similar to existing processes in NH for obtaining domestic violence restraining orders.

This letter is intended to urge all New Hampshire residents to contact their representatives and request their support for HB687. There is plenty of room in NH for common sense gun laws that help protect individuals and the public.