LANSING, Mich., Dec. 7, 2021 — State Rep. Rachel Hood (D-Grand Rapids) has begun drafting legislation that would institute a seven-day wait period for all pistol purchases in the state of Michigan.
“In light of the recent tragedy at Oxford High School, we need more than just thoughts and prayers — we need action,” Hood said. “If my bill were enacted, the gun used in the Oxford High School shooting would still be in the store where it was bought. Wait periods are essential because they allow authorities to conduct thorough background checks and provide a ‘cooling-off’ period that prevents impulsive acts of gun violence.”
Michigan has no firearms wait period restrictions in state law. Wait periods have also been shown to sharply reduce rates of gun homicide and suicide. A 2019 study found that 72% of gun owners support mandatory wait periods for firearms purchases.
Rep. Hood intends to introduce the legislation in the coming days.
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Contact:
Tom Stephenson
Office of State Representative Rachel Hood
(616) 824-9464