Michigan lawmakers considering bills that would force schools to allow hidden, loaded handguns

In the wake of last week’s tragedy on the Las Vegas Strip, several Michigan congressional Republicans expressed openness to prohibiting bump stocks, the dangerous firearm accessories used by the Mandalay Bay shooter. But even amid this national discussion of strengthening gun laws, Michigan state lawmakers are continuing to push bills that would take the state’s gun laws in the opposite direction.

Last month, Michigan state senators introduced a package of bills that would allow people to carry hidden, loaded handguns in Michigan elementary, middle and high schools – along with college dorms and classrooms, bars and sports arenas. What’s more, the legislation would prevent school districts from adopting policies prohibiting guns in their schools. Despite the deadliest mass shooting in modern history occurring just days ago, lawmakers could take up these dangerous bills as early as this week.

The bills, SB 584 and SB 586, would mark a dangerous rollback of Michigan’s gun laws:

SB 584 and SB 586 would force elementary, middle and high schools to allow civilians to carry loaded handguns on their premises. Teachers and school safety experts oppose allowing guns in schools.

SB 584 would also allow civilians—including students, staff and visitors—to carry hidden, loaded handguns in college classrooms and dorms. Campus police chiefs, college administrators and faculty, and college students all overwhelmingly oppose allowing guns on college campuses.

SB 584 would undermine common-sense public safety laws and allow people to carry hidden, loaded handguns in bars and sports arenas.

More information about SB 584 and SB 586 is available here, and volunteers from the Michigan chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America are also available to discuss these dangerous bills and the widespread opposition in Michigan to rolling back common-sense gun laws. To set up an interview, or for more information about the bills or about guns in schools, campus buildings, bars and sports arenas, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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