LANSING, Mich., April 30, 2026 — State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) introduced legislation this week to limit the use of chemical weapons against protestors. The bill is, in part, a response to recently introduced House Bill 5388 that would expand the types of chemicals that can be used as “self-defense sprays.”
“Chemical weapons being used against peaceful protestors is inhumane,” Dievendorf said. “We saw earlier this year the kind of force the federal government is willing to exert against its own people. While we do not have the authority to halt the federal government’s dangerous tactics, we can restrict the use of these weapons at the state level, rather than expand their application.”
In the wake of increased ICE and Border Patrol presence in U.S. cities, local communities across the country have engaged in peaceful protest against federal agents’ violent actions and harsh federal immigration policies. Protestors, journalists and bystanders have been met with force including the use of chemical weapons — in one instance, children were tear gassed by federal agents.
“My bill is essential to ensure the First Amendment rights to assemble and protest are not infringed upon,” Dievendorf continued. “Militaries around the world are prohibited from using tear gas in war, and yet we use it against our own citizens simply for exercising their constitutionally protected rights. Communities across the country have responded to the federal immigration crackdown by peacefully protesting against this administration’s use of force only to be met with force themselves. That fact should upset every American.”
The legislation would also restrict the use of kinetic energy projectiles as a means to break up a protest. This year alone, so-called “less than lethal” rounds have resulted in multiple protestors being shot in the eye, leaving them with severe injuries and permanent damage to their vision. Additionally, the bill would require law enforcement to submit a report to the state if force is used against protestors or to disperse an assembly within 60 days of the incident.
“In light of recent events, one thing is clear: we must rein in the power of law enforcement to suppress protestors through the use of force,” Dievendorf added. “That is why this bill is so vital. Protest and civil disobedience are fundamental rights in America, but those rights are increasingly being threatened by an administration that has repeatedly shown it has no aversion to violence. In this and every moment of heightened political tension, I will always stand up against violence, defend the rights of Michiganders and ensure their health, safety and well-being is protected.”
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