Weapons: firearms; sale, manufacture, or possession of a firearm disguised to resemble a toy; prohibit. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 224g.
If enacted, SB1134 will introduce penalties for violations, classifying offenses under this law as misdemeanors, which could lead to up to one year of imprisonment and/or fines up to $500. Additionally, the bill outlines specific exemptions, such as allowing individuals who possess these firearms before the law's enactment to either surrender or modify them within a given timeframe. This flexibility aims to mitigate immediate legal repercussions for current owners while promoting compliance with new regulations.
Senate Bill 1134 proposes significant changes to firearm regulations in Michigan by amending the Michigan penal code. The bill specifically addresses the sale, possession, and modification of deceptively colored firearms and covert firearms, categorizing these items as illegal. According to the bill, individuals would not be permitted to sell, purchase, transfer, own, possess, carry, or transport firearms that are deceptively colored or disguised to be unrecognizable as firearms. This regulation aims to enhance public safety by preventing the misuse of firearms that may resemble toys or other non-threatening objects.
The introduction of SB1134 has generated debate among legislators and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill effectively addresses safety concerns associated with firearms that can be easily mistaken for toys, posing risks, particularly to children. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the implications for lawful gun owners, asserting that this legislation may inadvertently criminalize innocent activities such as modifications done for aesthetic preferences or collecting purposes. These conflicting views highlight the ongoing discussions around gun safety versus the rights of firearm owners in Michigan.