AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Health and Human Services has released its first annual report on firearm deaths and hospitalizations. The report is the result of a measure introduced by Rep. Lori K. Gramlich, D-Old Orchard Beach, which became law last year.
According to the report, there were 154 firearm deaths in Maine in 2020. The report also highlighted an additional 39 firearm-related hospitalizations that did not result in death.
"As policymakers, we rely on data to inform our decisions, especially when it comes to public health," said Gramlich. "But until now, there has been no mechanism to gather data that is comprehensive and available to the public in one place on firearm injuries and deaths in our state. Instead, we have had to rely on anecdotes, headlines and fragmented information. I introduced LD 1392 to change that so we can have informed conversations about how to save lives."
Deaths by suicide accounted for roughly 86%, or 132, of the overall firearms deaths reported. Nineteen were homicides and the remaining three were the result of accidents.
"We often hear that Maine does not have a problem with gun deaths, but this report clearly indicates otherwise," said Gramlich. "Gun deaths includes suicides as well as homicides, and this data shows we in Maine are experiencing rates of suicide using firearms above the national average."
Gramlich said the alarming number of suicides using a firearm in the single year covered by the report shows the intersection of gun safety and mental health.
"As a state representative and longtime social worker, strengthening our mental health system has been a top priority for me. For decades, the system has been increasingly fractured and underfunded, which has meant too many Mainers struggle with mental and behavioral health issues because they cannot access the care they need. To me, the numbers in this report make it clear that we have a public health crisis that is resulting in scores of firearms-related deaths each year," said Gramlich.
Progress has been made under the Mills administration with investments in behavioral health made by the Legislature this year.
"I know people are struggling and hurting, and we're working hard to improve Maine's behavioral health care system and help providers so people don't go without services. However, these numbers show there is still more work to do," said Gramlich.
Gramlich is serving her second term in the Maine House. She is a member of the Taxation Committee and the Environment and Natural Resources Committee. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over 35 years of experience.
A wide range of resources are available to Maine people experiencing a crisis or mental health challenge, including:
- The Maine Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Both crisis hotlines are answered 24/7 and provide free, confidential support for individuals or families in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Resources are provided via phone, text and chat and support non-English speaking and deaf or hard of hearing callers.
Contact:
Jenna Howard [Gramlich], c. 214-3185