CONCEALED WEAPONS: EXEMPTIONS
House Bill 5683
Sponsor: Rep. Cameron Brown
Committee: Criminal Justice
Complete to 4-5-02
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5683 AS INTRODUCED 2-20-02
Currently, the handgun licensure act (MCL 28.421 et al.) specifies that, in order to be eligible to receive a concealed weapon license, an individual must, among other requirements, have completed a pistol safety training course or class that meets the act's safety training requirements. The act further specifies that the safety education requirements are to be waived for an individual who held a general nonrestricted license on July 1, 2001, and who is a peace officer, or former peace officer (although he or she must complete at least three hours of review of the prescribed training). In addition, the act prohibits carrying a concealed weapon on the premises of certain institutions, such as schools, sports arenas, and churches. House Bill 5683 would amend the act to exempt retired and part time officers and private detectives from some of these requirements and restrictions, as follows:
Safety Education Requirements. The bill would specify that the safety education provision specified under the act would not apply to a peace officer or former peace offer. It would delete the current requirement that in order to be exempt, these individuals must have held a general nonrestricted license on July 1, 2001. (As used in the bill, "former peace officer" would mean a person who had been employed as a peace officer but who had retired or otherwise discontinued his or her service as a peace officer and who was otherwise eligible to obtain a license to carry a concealed pistol; and a "peace officer" would mean an individual who was certified as a peace officer by the Commission on Law Enforcement Standards, and who was employed full-time as a peace officer by the state or by a political subdivision of the state.)
Restrictions on where a concealed weapon may be carried. The bill would specify that neither a reserve or part-time peace officer, nor a licensed private detective or private investigator performing his or her duties, would be subject to the general restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon in such places as churches, schools, and sports arenas.
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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.