The Michigan House of Representatives has passed legislation that would prevent individuals convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence from owning firearms for a period of eight years. This initiative seeks to close a gap in existing law, which already imposes a firearm possession ban for certain felony convictions.
Representative Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) was a vocal advocate for the bills. During a compelling floor speech, O’Neal underscored the urgency and importance of the legislation. “With this legislation before us, we stand with survivors to reduce the risk of having deadly weapons in the hands of violent and deadly people,” he declared, emphasizing the critical nature of the bills.
O’Neal further clarified the scope of the proposed restrictions, stating, “These bills finally prohibit an individual convicted – and I’ll emphasize, convicted – of a domestic violence misdemeanor from possessing a firearm and ammunition with a gun.” The proposed timeframe for the ban on gun possession would commence only after the individual has completed incarceration and paid all associated fines.
In a display of bipartisanship, two Republican members joined the Democrats in supporting the legislation. However, not all lawmakers were in favor.
Representative Josh Schriver (R-Oxford) expressed his opposition, arguing that the crimes in question should not carry the same weight as felonies. “They’re petty misdemeanors and shouldn’t cause individuals to become sitting ducks for violent criminals by losing their right to defend themselves for more than eight years,” Schriver contended. He appealed to his colleagues’ sense of mercy, justice, and their constitutional oath, urging them to oppose the bill package.
The suite of bills, one of which has been finalized by the House vote, is part of a broader gun control effort. The approved bill is set to be presented to Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who has historically supported gun control measures, for her signature. The remaining bills in the package are on their way to the Michigan Senate for further consideration.
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