LANSING – Continuing his efforts for common-sense gun laws for military men and women, State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City) has introduced legislation that will make it easier for active service members to legally carry firearms. Mayes' new legislation clarifies the law so that active-duty military members who are stationed in Michigan but have a home address in another state are able to use their existing out-of-state license.
"Our brave men and women in the military are busy defending our freedom and protecting our country, they should not have to jump through additional hoops to legally carry a firearm," Mayes said. "This legislation simply eliminates unnecessary regulations that prevent some of our finest citizens from exercising the very rights they defend."
Under Mayes' new plan, active service members who have a concealed pistol license in their home state will not need a Michigan license just because they are on active duty in the state. Mayes introduced the plan as part of a bipartisan package of bills that aim to make common-sense reforms to Michigan's gun laws. These reforms include:
- Applying Michigan's laws to holders of an out-of-state concealed weapons permit
- Preventing colleges and universities from enacting ordinances different from state law, in order to remove ambiguities between the two
- Removing needless bureaucracy that precludes firearms dealers from obtaining a pistol
"Laws promoting responsible gun ownership are very important and help protect our residents," Mayes said. "However, concealed weapons laws should not go overboard and prevent our law-abiding citizens, especially our military members, from obtaining a permit."