‘Second Amendment rights don’t stop during an emergency’
LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Lana Theis’ legislation that would ensure the issuance and renewal of concealed pistol licenses during declared emergencies will now head to the desk of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer after the House of Representatives passed the bill Thursday.
Theis fielded numerous complaints throughout the COVID-19 pandemic that county clerks across the state refused or delayed issuing or renewing concealed pistol licenses, infringing on law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights.
“The Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens cannot be infringed upon, even in times of emergency,” said Theis, R-Brighton. “People must be able to defend their life and property, especially during an emergency when having a concealed weapon maybe even more necessary. State law is clear that county clerks shall issue concealed pistol licenses to those who are qualified, and my bill will ensure that this essential service continues regardless of any declared state of emergency or executive order. I thank my legislative colleagues for their support and strongly urge the governor to sign the bill for the health and safety of Michigan gun owners.”
Senate Bill 11 would require county clerks to continue to issue and renew concealed pistol licenses regardless of any shutdown issued by executive order or public health order. The clerk’s office and law enforcement would also be required to continue providing the fingerprinting services necessary to obtain a new concealed pistol license.
Additionally, the bill would enable the Michigan State Police to provide personal identification numbers to concealed pistol license holders, so they may renew their licenses online during any declared emergency.
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