Bills would keep firearms out of hands of convicted abusers
LANSING, Mich., Sept. 8, 2023 — State Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) reintroduced legislation yesterday, House Bills 4945 and 4946, to strengthen domestic violence protections. These bills prohibit people convicted of domestic violence from using and possessing firearms.
“As it stands now, Michigan law does not prohibit those convicted of domestic violence from possessing guns — narrowly, it limits the gun ban on convicted felons,” O’Neal said. “It’s time that we expand the scope of protections, keeping guns out of the hands of those who have been found guilty of domestic violence — this will prevent future violence and save lives.”
The domestic violence gun bills introduced today continue the gun reform efforts at the Capitol.
Earlier this term, House Democrats passed several sensible gun reforms to protect Michiganders. These bills include background checks on all gun sales, safe storage laws and the establishment of extreme risk protection orders.
“I reintroduced this legislation because we must continue to keep Michigan families and communities safe from the threat of gun violence,” O’Neal continued. “I am committed to do everything I can to pass this package into law and better protect Michigan families and communities from the tragic effects of both gun and domestic violence.”
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.