Michigan Senate Democrats are taking steps to tighten gun control laws in the state. On Thursday, the Judiciary Committee approved two significant bills aimed at banning bump stocks and regulating so-called “ghost guns.”
State Senator Dayna Polehanki, a Democrat, is behind the bump stock ban. She described these devices as dangerous weapons that can cause immense harm in a very short time. “Bump stocks are not tools for sport or self-defense,” she said. “Their continued availability puts our communities at risk, and that’s unacceptable.”
The second set of bills focuses on ghost guns, which are firearms that can be assembled at home and often lack serial numbers. Senator Mallory McMorrow sponsored this legislation, which aims to prohibit the purchase, possession, and distribution of these untraceable guns. McMorrow emphasized the need for laws to keep pace with advancements in gun manufacturing technology. “Our communities deserve safety as quickly as new weapon production methods emerge,” she stated.
In addition to these measures, Senator Rosemary Bayer is advocating for a ban on open and concealed carry of firearms on the grounds of the Michigan Capitol and in the Anderson House Office Building. Bayer argues that the presence of armed individuals can intimidate lawmakers and hinder their ability to support important legislation.
These proposed changes come amid a broader national conversation about gun control and public safety, reflecting growing concerns about the impact of easily accessible firearms. As these bills move forward, they are likely to spark further debate in Michigan and beyond.