Michigan Capitol Rejects Gun Ban
This past week, the Michigan Capitol Commission rejected a ban on firearms at Michigan's Capitol Building, both within the building and on its grounds.
During a Monday morning hearing in Lansing, commissioners first rejected a measure to ban guns in the Capitol and then one that would have banned specifically long guns. The first motion failed 4-2. The vote on the second was 3-3. Lacking majorities, neither passed.
Despite years of peaceful events where firearms have been present, the issue was raised after protesters who objected to the way Governor Whitmer has handled the coronavirus pandemic were present in the Capitol in late April. Some entered the gallery above chambers with long guns, alarming some Democratic lawmakers.
Among the obstacles to instituting a ban brought up by commissioners Monday was enforcement, specifically the lack of metal detectors, X-ray machines and security checkpoint staff. The cost of implementing a ban would have run between $500,000 to $1.3 million.
There has never been an intentional or negligent discharge of a firearm at Michigan's current Capitol Building since it was opened in 1878. The recent debate was based on fear and political opportunism by politicians seeking to expand limits on self-defense rights while disregarding Michigan's Constitution.
