As a law enforcement professional, I applaud Sen. Susan Collins’ co-sponsorship of the Gun Trafficking Bill S.54, which makes both gun trafficking and straw purchasing a federal crime.

For too long, Maine has been known as an easy place for prohibited persons, including drug runners and convicted felons, to acquire guns. Lewiston has benefited from programs such as Project Safe Neighborhood and the Hot Spots efforts, targeting both gun violence and illegal, criminal activities.

We need a commitment to background checks for all gun sales to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have them.

Sen. Collins, along with Sens. Boxer and Blumenthal, are also sponsoring substitute amendment, S. 146, to the School Safety and Campus Enhancement Act to keep children safe in schools.

Sen. Collins understands this, and is representing the interests of the nearly 90 percent of Mainers who want these sensible solutions to reduce gun violence. She wants to help law enforcement protect the public, and police officers, from further harm.

Auburn Police Chief Phillip Crowell, Portland Police Chief Michael Sauschuck and I traveled to Washington, D.C., and to the White House recently. Lewiston Chief Michael Bussiere had to stay back to present his budget and couldn’t travel with us but he also supports the above legislation.

We also met with Sen. Collins and Sen. Angus King’s senior staff and we stand with both senators on these issues and urge them to continue to do the right thing for all Mainers.

Laurent F. Gilbert Sr., Lewiston