Michigan 2026 Second Amendment Bills and Firearm News

Current Landscape of Michigan Firearm Laws

Michigan’s Constitution, Article 1, Section 6, states: “Every person has a right to keep and bear arms for the defense of himself and the state.” Despite this, the state maintains a permitting system for concealed carry under the 1927 Pistol Licensing Act. Law-abiding citizens must obtain a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) involving training, background checks, and fees. Open carry is generally allowed without a permit, subject to restrictions. 

Recent years saw significant changes. In 2023, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a package of gun safety measures, including universal background checks, safe storage requirements, and Michigan’s “red flag” law (Extreme Risk Protection Orders, or ERPOs). These took effect in 2024. Firearm registration applies to handguns, and purchasers often need a permit to purchase or a CPL. 

Gun violence statistics underscore the stakes. Michigan averages over 1,400 gun deaths annually, though homicide rates have declined in recent years according to some reports. Proponents of restrictions cite this as evidence for further measures; opponents argue that law-abiding citizens’ rights should not be curtailed in response to criminal activity. 

Pro-Second Amendment Legislation: The Push for Constitutional Carry

The most prominent development in 2026 is the introduction of House Bills 5653 – 5657, sponsored primarily by Rep. Mike Hoadley (R-Au Gres) and supported by colleagues including Reps. Joseph Fox, James DeSana, Jay DeBoyer, and others. Introduced in early March 2026, this package aims to establish “constitutional carry,” making Michigan the 30th state to allow permitless concealed carry for individuals legally permitted to possess firearms. 

•  HB 5653 repeals certain provisions in the Michigan Penal Code tied to concealed carry restrictions.

•  Companion bills (HB 5655 – 5657) update statutes to prevent penalties for lawful carry without a permit and ensure consistency across laws, including corrections code references.

•  Permits would still be available and useful for reciprocity when traveling out of state. 

Supporters argue the current system treats a constitutional right as a privilege, imposing unnecessary barriers like training mandates and fees. Rep. Hoadley stated: “The Second Amendment is exceptionally clear… Requiring an American citizen to have a permit… is outrageous.” The bills were referred to the House Judiciary Committee. 

As of May 2026, the bills await further action. Passage in the House is plausible given Republican support, but prospects in the Democratic Senate appear dim without compromise. If enacted, the change would align Michigan with the majority of states that have adopted permitless carry, potentially increasing lawful carry among responsible citizens while maintaining prohibitions for felons and others. 

Related efforts include earlier 2025 bills like those lowering the CPL application age or clarifying licensing, reflecting sustained Republican interest in easing restrictions. 

Efforts to Repeal or Modify Red Flag Laws

Republicans continue challenging the 2023 Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. A package introduced in 2025 by Rep. James DeSana seeks repeal, arguing it violates due process and Second Amendment rights by allowing ex parte orders that temporarily remove firearms without an initial hearing. 

Usage data shows growth: 391 complaints in the first year (2024), rising 31% to over 500 filings in 2025. Supporters view this as evidence of effectiveness in preventing harm; critics highlight risks of abuse and insufficient due process safeguards. Repeal faces strong opposition in the Senate and from Gov. Whitmer. 

Gun Control Proposals: Expanding Restrictions

Democrats and gun violence prevention organizations, including GIFFORDS, have introduced a broad slate of bills in early 2026 to strengthen regulations. These include: 

•  Gun Dealer Licensing (HB 5065/5066, SB 853/854): Requires state licenses, training, liability insurance, and accountability for sales to prohibited persons.

•  High-Capacity Magazine Ban (HB 5750, SB 851): Prohibits magazines holding more than 10 rounds.

•  Bump Stock Ban (SB 224, HB 5751): Targets devices enhancing semiautomatic fire rates.

•  Waiting Period (HB 5743, SB 848): Three-day delay between purchase and acquisition.

•  Mandatory Safety Training and Age 21 Purchase Minimum: For all firearm buyers.

•  Expanded Gun-Free Zones (HB 5741/5742, SB 849/850): Adds libraries, capitol grounds, and state buildings; closes open-carry loopholes.

•  PLCAA Repeal Efforts: Allowing lawsuits against firearm manufacturers for crimes committed with their products. 

These measures reflect a public health approach to gun violence. GIFFORDS urged passage, noting falling homicide rates as proof that “commonsense gun laws save lives.” However, with divided government, many face uphill battles in the House. 

Additional proposals target “ghost guns,” drive-by shooting penalties, and local authority over government buildings. 

Broader Firearm News and Context

Michigan courts and law enforcement continue implementing existing laws. Legal updates, such as those affirming stops based on observed concealed carry bulges, highlight enforcement realities. 

Nationally, post-Bruen (2022) Second Amendment jurisprudence influences state debates, with ongoing challenges to various restrictions. Michigan-specific litigation and federal developments, like veterans’ rights protections, add layers. 

Public sentiment remains split. Gun rights groups host events like “Michigan Defenders of the 2nd Amendment,” while prevention advocates emphasize suicide prevention, domestic violence, and community safety. Economic aspects, including dealer regulations and industry liability, also feature prominently. 

Firearm ownership and training remain popular. Elective firearm safety courses in schools and private training reflect responsible ownership culture alongside policy fights. 

Outlook for the Remainder of 2026

With the legislative session ongoing, outcomes depend on negotiation and public pressure. Constitutional carry could advance if momentum builds in the House and finds Senate moderates. Gun control packages may see partial movement or stall amid partisan lines. Red flag repeal appears unlikely without broader shifts.

Voters will ultimately influence direction through 2026 elections. Candidates’ stances on these issues, including potential gubernatorial races, will shape the debate. Michigan’s strong constitutional provision and diverse population position it as a bellwether for balancing rights and safety. 

Stakeholders on all sides emphasize lawful ownership and reducing violence. Whether through expanded rights or tighter rules, 2026 legislation will significantly impact how Michiganders exercise Second Amendment freedoms for years to come.