Criminal Justice (Firearms)

HB 5341 modifies Michigan's weapon carrying laws by changing penalties for first-time violations of concealed pistol licensing rules. It specifies that individuals who carry a concealed pistol without a current license (but with an expired license under 1 year old and eligibility for a new license) will now face only a $330 civil fine instead of potential felony charges. The bill directly affects people who carry concealed weapons without a valid permit but meet these specific criteria. It does not change the requirement for a license or the underlying prohibition on concealed carry without one. The key change is replacing criminal penalties with a civil fine for this narrow category of first-time violations.

HB 5065 requires retail firearm dealers in Michigan to obtain a state-issued license ($250 fee) and renew it annually ($200 fee). It mandates annual training for dealers and employees on firearm safety, identifying illegal sales, and preventing trafficking, with a 70% passing score needed. The bill applies to businesses selling firearms regularly (not occasional sellers of 8 or fewer firearms yearly) and requires federal licensing, age checks (21+), and criminal background checks for staff. Dealers must display licenses prominently and maintain records for four years. The law aims to regulate retail firearm sales through licensing, training, and record-keeping requirements.

HB 4587 creates a court process for Michiganders with certain court-ordered mental health commitments or adjudications (triggering federal firearm restrictions under 18 U.S.C. 922(d)(4)/(g)(4)) to seek relief from firearm disabilities. It requires courts to forward only necessary identifying information to state police for background checks and allows affected individuals to petition courts for relief after meeting specific criteria, including demonstrating they no longer pose a public safety risk. Courts must review petitions confidentially using evidence on the petitioner's mental health, criminal history, reputation, and changed circumstances. If approved, the state police must remove the disability from background check systems within 10 business days. This bill directly affects people barred from firearm purchases due to Michigan court decisions.