LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel discussed the implementation of new gun regulations in the state, aiming to curb gun violence and raise awareness about the laws. Following a mass shooting at Michigan State University in February 2023, the Democratic-led Legislature passed several gun reforms, including universal background checks and safe-storage requirements. These efforts were highlighted at the virtual Michigan Gun Violence Prevention summit, with Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist among the speakers.
Nessel emphasized the importance of these policies in reducing gun violence, with many of them set to take effect in February 2024. The new background check requirements will ensure that potential buyers do not have criminal records or are ineligible to own firearms. The safe storage requirements are designed to keep firearms out of the hands of minors, and penalties will be imposed if a minor gains access to a firearm that was not securely stored.
One significant aspect of the new laws is the provision for extreme risk protection orders, also known as red flag laws. This allows individuals to file a court order to temporarily prevent someone from purchasing or possessing a firearm if they are in severe distress and pose a risk to themselves or others. The order can stay in place for up to a year, and the restrained individual has the opportunity to request the order to be rescinded.
In addition to the enacted reforms, Nessel is working with the Legislature on new bills. One bill aims to require a 24-hour waiting period for individuals arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, giving survivors time to plan and file emergency risk protection orders while the alleged perpetrator is in custody. Another bill seeks to crack down on untraceable “ghost guns,” which are often assembled from kits and lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace.
Nessel also stressed the importance of educating Michigan residents about the new laws and providing training for law enforcement on domestic violence issues. She expressed the need for better understanding of the psychological impact of domestic violence and the unique needs of survivors among prosecutors, police officers, and courts.
The new gun regulations in Michigan aim to address the pressing issue of gun violence in the state. By implementing universal background checks, enforcing safe-storage requirements, and creating extreme risk protection orders, Michigan hopes to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands and protect vulnerable individuals. Education and awareness will be key in ensuring that these laws are effectively implemented and enforced throughout the state.