Janice R. Andrews
Today, three significant gun regulations go into effect in Michigan, and while this is anticipated, there will be a learning curve for law enforcement and court personnel. These restrictions were put into effect precisely one year ago in response to a fatal shooting at Michigan State University. They are intended to prohibit children and those judged dangerous from obtaining firearms.
Due to procedural obstacles in the Senate last year, the legislation—which includes a “red flag” measure permitting temporary firearm confiscation—had delays in enactment. Consequently, following a 90-day extension past the 2023 session, the legislation are finally going into effect.
One of the main advocates of the proposal, Representative Kelly Breen, highlights how these laws, which focus on gun-related accidents, murders, and suicides, have the potential to save lives.
Residents of Michigan will witness the following laws being enforced today:
- The Extreme Risk Protection Order Act gives people the ability to ask judges to take away a person’s handgun from someone who poses a risk.
- Safe Firearm Storage: Requiring safe firearm storage in residences where minors are housed.
- Expanding background checks and registration regulations to include all handgun transactions is known as “firearm licensing.”
These laws also include provisions that prohibit gun ownership by victims of domestic abuse and modify definitions to affect the suspension of gun rights for specific offenses.
Law enforcement and court authorities admit a learning curve despite the need of these procedures, especially with the red flag law. The State Court Administrator expresses confidence in adaption by pointing out parallels with current personal protection order procedures.
statute enforcement is still worried, though, particularly about possible abuse and practical difficulties in implementing the red flag statute. David Leyton, the prosecutor for Genesee County, emphasizes the teamwork required to successfully negotiate the intricate new rules.
A framework for recognizing and managing hazards associated with firearms is established by the Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which has been ratified by a number of states already. While state adoption rates of comparable laws have varied, Michigan is preparing for a quick transition phase.
Inspired by tragedies such as the Oxford High School shooting, the Secure Storage of Firearms statute seeks to reduce the number of youth-involved firearm events that are either unintentional or intentional. Law enforcement officials believe, however, that enforcement may mostly be a reaction to tragedy.
Last but not least, the Universal Background Check statute expands the current regulations to cover all firearm purchases, with few exceptions for familial transfers.
After creating protocols and reaching out to interested parties, the Michigan State Police confirm that they are prepared to put these legislation into effect.
As Michigan enters this critical stage of gun control legislation, interested parties are prepared to work together to guarantee efficient execution and, eventually, improved public safety.
