Crimes: penalties; penalties for discharging a firearm at a motor vehicle; increase fines if a minor is in the vehicle. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 234g.
Impact
The primary intent of HB5821 is to enhance public safety by deterring individuals from recklessly discharging firearms towards occupied vehicles. By including heightened penalties for actions that endanger minors, the bill aims to address concerns regarding gun violence and its implications for vulnerable populations. This legislative approach reflects a broader trend of states looking to strengthen firearm laws in light of public safety discussions. If enacted, this bill will amend existing laws, potentially influencing how gun-related offenses are prosecuted in Michigan.
Summary
House Bill 5821, also known as 'Messiah's Law', seeks to amend the Michigan Penal Code by adding new penalties for individuals who intentionally discharge a firearm at a motor vehicle that is known or assumed to be occupied. The bill specifies that such actions qualify as a felony offense, carrying a potential imprisonment of up to 10 years or fines up to $10,000, unless the vehicle is occupied by a minor. In that case, the penalties increase, allowing for up to 20 years of imprisonment or fines up to $20,000.
Contention
There may be points of contention regarding the enforceability and implications of such stringent penalties. Critics could argue that imposing severe penalties may not address the root causes of gun violence or adequately prevent these incidents from occurring. Additionally, discussions may revolve around the implications for individuals found guilty of such felonies, which could lead to long-term consequences impacting their lives, such as difficulties in employment and housing. Advocates for the bill, however, may assert that the substantial penalties reflect the seriousness of the crime and prioritize the protection of public safety.
Crimes: weapons; penalties for intentionally discharging a firearm from vehicle or at a dwelling or a potentially occupied structure; increase. Amends sec. 234b of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.234b).
Crimes: weapons; openly carrying an assault weapon within 1,000 feet of certain places; prohibit. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 234g.
Crimes: assaultive; assault or battery of certain vehicle operators and employees; prohibit under certain circumstances, and provide for penalties. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 81g.
Crimes: penalties; penalties for sexual conduct with a corpse or involving a corpse; provide for. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 160d.
Crimes: penalties; penalties for sexual conduct with a corpse or involving a corpse; provide for. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 160d.
Animals: dogs; penalties for stealing or holding a dog; increase. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 357c & repeals sec. 8 of 1939 PA 309 (MCL 287.308).
Animals: dogs; penalties for stealing or holding a dog; increase. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 357c & repeals sec. 8 of 1939 PA 309 (MCL 287.308).
Crimes: criminal sexual conduct; sexual extortion and aggravated sexual extortion; prohibit and provide penalties. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 213b.
Crimes: penalties; penalties for partial-birth abortion and coercion to have abortion; increase. Amends secs. 90h & 213a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.90h & 750.213a).