A law that takes effect Thursday allows people to carry concealed firearms without permits, and that will put the public and police at risk, says Chief Michael Sauschuck.

Mariners across generations say the sinking of the El Faro and loss of 33 lives, including five with ties to Maine, is a painful reminder of the job’s risks, but the rewards remain. One of those rewards, the indelible sense of fellowship, will help them sail forward.

The investigation of the sinking is just beginning, but speculation about the causes includes the cargo ship’s age and condition.

A vigil is held in Rockland, while Coast Guard crews on the water and in the air focus on a debris field near the ship’s last known location.

The rally comes just before an Oct. 1 deadline for Congress to pass a spending bill that could include stripping the women’s health organization of public funding.