Michigan House Bill HB4146

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Report Pass: 4/12/23
• Engrossed: 4/13/23
• Refer: 4/19/23
• Report Pass: 4/19/23
• Enrolled: 4/26/23
• Chaptered: 5/23/23
• Passed: 5/23/23

Caption

Weapons: firearms; purchase of firearms or obtaining a concealed pistol license; prohibit if individual has an extreme risk protection order. Amends secs. 2, 2b, 5b & 8 of 1927 PA 372 (MCL 28.422 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0083'23

Impact

The passage of HB 4146 will significantly alter the firearms landscape in Michigan. Under the newly amended law, any individual who is subject to an extreme risk protection order, which is meant to prevent individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others from having access to firearms, would face an outright ban on acquiring firearms and concealed carry licenses. The implications of this change may lead to a decrease in firearm-related incidents involving individuals who may not be ready to safely handle firearms due to potential mental health issues or other concerns as judged by courts.

Summary

House Bill 4146 amends the existing legislation on the regulation and licensing of firearms within the state of Michigan. The bill specifically prohibits individuals with an extreme risk protection order from purchasing or obtaining a concealed pistol license. This amendment is aimed at enhancing public safety by restricting access to firearms for individuals deemed high-risk based on judicial findings. It reflects a growing national trend to address gun violence through legal avenues that prioritize community safety.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 4146 was notably mixed. Proponents of the bill, including various public health and advocacy groups, lauded the legislation as a crucial step toward gun violence prevention. They argue that it empowers law enforcement and the courts to undertake immediate actions to safeguard the public. Conversely, opponents of the bill raised concerns regarding the potential for misuse of extreme risk protection orders and the broader implications these restrictions may impose on lawful gun owners, viewing this as an infringement on their rights.

Contention

One of the most notable points of contention observed during the discussions was the balance between public safety and individual rights. Opponents voiced concerns about the potential abuse of the extreme risk protection orders, which they fear could lead to unwarranted restrictions on firearm access. Furthermore, they questioned the effectiveness of such regulations in preventing violence, arguing that it may not address the root causes of gun-related incidents. On the other hand, advocates stressed the importance of prioritizing community safety and the needs for measures that can remove firearms from at-risk individuals before harm can be done.