In the aftermath of tragic events at Oxford High School and Michigan State University, Michigan has implemented robust legislation aimed at improving gun safety. With two years gone by, the impact of these laws is becoming increasingly evident.
Central to this initiative is a mandate requiring guns to be both unloaded and secured in locations accessible to minors. Over the past two years, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has successfully distributed 110,600 free gun locks as part of the safe storage law.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “No one should have to fear gun violence at home, school, church, work or as they go about their daily lives.” She highlighted the significance of proper gun storage and education in preventing misuse and tragedies.
In addition, another crucial law empowers judges to issue extreme risk protection orders, facilitating the temporary removal of firearms from individuals considered a threat. According to April Zeoli, director of the Institute for Firearm Injury Prevention at the University of Michigan, this law has been instrumental in neutralizing potential threats.
A report released by the State Court Administrator Office noted that 287 extreme risk protection orders were approved in 2024, with 84 requests denied. The forthcoming 2025 report is expected to shed more light on the law’s effectiveness.
Zeoli advocates for mandatory training for law enforcement to ensure they can effectively implement the “red flag” law. She stressed the need for officers to have clear procedures when encountering potentially dangerous situations, particularly in domestic violence cases involving personal protection orders.
“Without that ability to knock on someone’s door and say I’m here to remove your firearms under this PPO, they just don’t do it,” Zeoli stated, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines.
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