Minnesotas red flag law, formally known as the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO), is back in the spotlight after a tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis left two children dead and at least 18 others wounded. Investigators identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who legally purchased the firearms used in the attack despite apparent warning signs in personal writings and online videos. Officials now say the case underscores both the strengths and shortcomings of the ERPO framework. The ERPO law, which took effect on January 1, 2024, allows family members, household members, legal guardians, law enforcement officers, or prosecutors to petition a judge to temporarily remove firearms from an individual deemed to pose an immediate risk to themselves or others. Once granted, the order prohibits that person from purchasing or possessing firearms, though the decision can be appealed in court. Minnesota became the 21st state to adopt such a measure after years of advocacy by Democrats and gun control organizations. The central challenge, however, is awareness. According to Spencer Meyers of the Giffords Law Center, many family members and concerned parties remain unfamiliar with how the ERPO process works or even that it exists. Most petitions so far have come from law enforcement, not relatives. Meyers emphasized that effective implementation requires broad public knowledge: Folks are still learning about the law and this highlights the importance of ensuring that people know these tools exist and how to use them. Data from the Minnesota Judicial Branch shows the law is increasingly being used. Between January 1 and August 1, 2025, 284 ERPO petitions were filed, compared with the total filings for all of 2024. Only 14 petitionsabout 5 percentwere rejected. Supporters point to research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law that estimates one suicide is prevented for every 17 to 23 ERPOs issued. Still, critics argue the law infringes on Second Amendment rights. Opponents contend that removing weapons before a crime is committed unfairly penalizes lawful gun owners. Proponents counter that the judicial review process ensures evidence must be presented before an order is issued, striking a balance between safety and due process. The church shooting has added urgency to the debate. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian OHara confirmed that Westman legally acquired the rifle, shotgun, and pistol recovered at the scene, and said investigators found disturbing evidence of obsession with past mass shootings. But no ERPO petition was filed in Westmans case. Officials stress this gap illustrates why more outreach is neededboth to families and communitiesto recognize warning signs and use the law. Minnesotas experience mirrors that of other states with red flag laws. ERPOs are credited with reducing suicides and preventing mass shootings in states like Florida and Oregon, but public engagement remains inconsistent. Advocates now push for more education campaigns to ensure Minnesotans know who can file petitions and under what circumstances.