HomePoliticsWhen Does Michigan Senate Vote On Concealed Carry? Gun Safety

When Does Michigan Senate Vote On Concealed Carry? Gun Safety

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The Michigan Senate has recently passed a major law regarding concealed carry, a pivotal issue at the intersection of personal rights and public safety. 

This legislation, which has already been approved, has generated great interest and curiosity among Michigan citizens and gun rights advocates. 

Concealed carry regulations have long been a subject of intense debate, with proponents arguing for the right to self-defense and opponents emphasizing the potential risks of easy access to concealed weapons. 

The passage of this law marks an important milestone in the ongoing debate surrounding the right to carry a concealed weapon in Michigan.

When Does Michigan Senate Vote On Concealed Carry?

The Michigan Senate voted on the legislation regarding concealed carry in mid-April. This vote came after the bill was introduced in February, just days after the tragic mass shooting at Michigan State University. 

The bill went through the necessary legislative processes and was eventually presented to Governor Whitmer on May 9. After careful consideration, Governor Whitmer signed the bill into law on May 22.

Can You Openly Carry A Pistol In Michigan?

In Michigan, it is allowed for any law-abiding citizen who is 18 years of age or older and owns a legally registered handgun to openly carry their firearm. 

This means you have the right to visibly carry your pistol in a holster in all places that are not explicitly exempt by law. However, private property rules override state law regarding firearm possession. 

So what does this mean? If a private property owner prohibits firearms on their premises, you must adhere to these rules and refrain from openly carrying your pistol in such locations.

Michigan Voters Wanted Red Flag Laws

Following the tragic mass shooting at Michigan State University in February, a survey was conducted among Michigan voters to gauge their stance on potential gun reform measures. 

The results of this survey unmistakably showed the substantial backing for such policies within the state.

The overwhelming majority—nearly 75%—of Michigan voters were in favor of the implementation of red flag laws. 

Additionally, 80% of the surveyed voters expressed their support for enacting laws mandating secure storage of firearms. 

Even more impressive, 88% of respondents endorsed universal background checks for all gun purchasers in Michigan.

All three proposed policies have passed through the state Legislature and adopted as laws. 

Both universal background checks and laws mandating secure gun storage have been successfully enacted and signed into effect.

The 11-Bill Gun Safety Package 

The 11-Bill Gun Safety Package came in response to a tragic mass shooting at the University of Michigan. This package comprises eleven bills, which aim to implement various gun restrictions to reduce gun violence. 

One of the critical components of these bills is the establishment of safe gun storage requirements. 

It seeks to ensure that firearms are securely stored and inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, especially children, thereby minimizing the risk of accidental shooting or unauthorized use.

Furthermore, the proposed gun safety package includes provisions for universal background checks. While background checks are already mandatory for purchasing handguns in many states, this legislation also extends the requirement to long guns. 

By conducting thorough background checks on all firearm purchasers, regardless of the type of gun they intend to buy, potential risks can be identified and mitigated earlier. 

This will prevent individuals with a history of violence or mental illness from obtaining firearms, ultimately contributing to a safer Michigan society.

Another significant aspect of the 11-Bill Gun Safety Package includes Extreme Risk Protection Orders, commonly called ‘red flag’ laws. 

These laws empower courts to temporarily restrict an individual’s access to firearms if they pose a risk to themselves or others. This proactive approach allows for intervention before a potential tragedy occurs.

Michigan Gun Laws

Michigan’s gun laws encompass a range of regulations about concealed carry, open carry, self-defense, and the use of force. As a “shall-issue” state, Michigan issues licenses for concealed carry at the local level through county clerks. 

The acquisition of a Michigan license to purchase a pistol and a background check are prerequisites for buying a handgun. Only residents can purchase handguns, whereas non-residents can buy long guns.

While no firearm registry exists, all handgun sales necessitate submitting a pistol sales record form to the Michigan State Police. Open carry is sanctioned for Michigan residents aged 18 and above with a firearm legally registered in their name. 

However, non-residents must possess a valid concealed carry license from their home state to conceal or openly carry. Open carry enjoys broader allowances than concealed carry, as Michigan law limits concealed carry in areas specified under Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.425o.

Concealed carry is lawful for Michigan residents holding a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and non-residents aged 21 or older with valid licenses or permits from their home states. 

Exceptions include active-duty military personnel stationed within or outside of Michigan, with CPL requirements waived for those stationed in Michigan. 

Michigan Compiled Laws Section 28.432a outlines additional exceptions, encompassing specific peace officers and active-duty military members on duty, among others. 

A prerequisite for CPL issuance is completing a state-approved firearms training course comprising at least eight hours of instruction, including three hours of range time.

Certain premises, such as schools and hospitals, are off-limits for concealed carry. Michigan adopts a reciprocal approach, recognizing resident licenses from all states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

Michigan embraces the Castle Doctrine and “stand your ground” principles in self-defense matters. This implies that you are not obligated to retreat if you face imminent threats and can use deadly force wherever you have legal rights. 

Immunity from civil liability is extended to those who legitimately employ firearms in self-defense.

The use of non-deadly force is permissible for individuals not engaged in criminal activities, provided they believe reasonably and honestly that such force is necessary to safeguard themselves or others from imminent unlawful force.

Likewise, deadly force is allowed for individuals not involved in criminal conduct. They are justified in using deadly force if they reasonably and honestly believe it’s essential to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or sexual assault.

How Many Guns Can You Legally Own In Michigan?

As of the last update on January 5, 2023, Michigan does not restrict the number of guns an individual can legally own. It means you can purchase multiple firearms without limitations if you are a Michigan resident. 

However, let’s be practical for a minute: What would you need ten guns for? It can be weird and raise suspicion for no reason unless you have a gun collection.

Who Is Not Allowed To Own A Gun In Michigan?

Certain individuals are not allowed to own a gun in Michigan. These individuals include those convicted of a felony or a “specified felony” as defined by state law. 

Michigan law prohibits these individuals from possessing, using, carrying, shipping, transporting, selling, purchasing, receiving, or distributing a firearm or ammunition. 

However, if a person convicted of a felony has satisfied the statutory requirements to restore their right to own or possess a firearm, they may be allowed to do so. 

Additionally, Michigan also prohibits handgun sellers from knowingly selling firearms or ammunition to people who have been convicted of a felony or are under indictment for a felony.

Is It Illegal To Carry A Knife In Michigan

You are allowed to carry knives under certain circumstances. It is generally legal to conceal and carry a folding knife, which may also be called a pocket knife, jackknife, or buck knife. 

This applies regardless of whether the knife is single or double-edged. However, carrying these knives is only allowed if they are used as tools and not as dangerous stabbing weapons.

Conclusion

The Michigan Senate’s vote on concealed carry legislation was a significant step in addressing the issue of gun control and safety. While some argue for stricter gun control measures to ensure public safety, others advocate for the right to self-defense and personal protection. 

Governor Whitmer’s careful consideration and subsequent signing of the bill into law on May 22 demonstrate the weight given to balancing individual rights and public safety. As with any legislation, it is important to evaluate and monitor its impact on society continuously. 

Ongoing discussions and debates will undoubtedly accompany the implementation of this law on how to enhance gun control measures further while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens.

Jason Cooper
Jason Cooper
Jason Cooper is a dedicated news blogger with a zeal for storytelling. Enthusiastically covering current events, he constantly seeks fresh angles and innovative ways to refine his craft and engage his readers.

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