Michigan residents will see new gun safety laws take effect on Tuesday, designed to enhance safety measures surrounding firearm use. The new laws were proposed in the wake of a tragic incident in which a 14-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his cousin. The incident led to increased advocacy for stricter regulations, prompting the Michigan legislature to take action.
One of the key changes brought about by the new laws is the requirement for gun owners to securely store their firearms, especially if they reside with individuals under the age of 18. Additionally, the laws have expanded the definition of brandishing a firearm to include instances where individuals point a gun at someone, even if the gun is not loaded. This expansion seeks to address the potential threat that is presented when someone uses a firearm to intimidate others, regardless of whether the gun is capable of discharging a projectile.
The laws also establish a system for individuals to voluntarily surrender their firearms to law enforcement for safekeeping if they feel they pose a risk to themselves or others. Furthermore, individuals who have been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility or have been found mentally incompetent will be prohibited from purchasing firearms. These measures aim to prevent individuals who may pose a risk from accessing firearms.
Critics of the new laws argue that they infringe on the rights of law-abiding gun owners, while proponents assert that the laws are a necessary step towards reducing the risk of firearm-related incidents. The enforcement of these laws is expected to be a topic of discussion, as ensuring compliance presents its own set of challenges. Nonetheless, the implementation of these laws signals the state’s commitment to addressing the issue of gun safety and securing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.