GOP lawmakers introduce bill to make Michigan a 'Second Amendment sanctuary state'

LANSING, Mich — A group of Republican state lawmakers introduced bicameral legislation Friday that aims to prohibit enforcement of many gun laws the state legislature passed earlier this year. 

State Rep. Gina Johnson (R-Lake Odessa) introduced House Bill 5132 and Sen. Jonathan Lindsey (R-Allen) introduced Senate Bill 584 Friday. 

If passed, these bills would make Michigan a so-called "Second Amendment sanctuary state" for law-abiding gun owners. 

The bill would prohibit enforcement of gun control measures like universal background checks, red flag laws and others. 

With Michigan's legislature controlled by Democrats that pushed 'red flag' bills, safe storage bills and universal background checks, it's unlikely these bills would make it to the governor's desk.  

Proponents of these laws say these measures help prevent violence, while critics say it impedes lawful gun owners. 

A handful of Republican West Michigan state representatives support the measure, including State Rep. Angela Rigas (District 79) and Rep. Bradley Slagh (District 90). 

The bills were referred to the House Judiciary Committee and the Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee, respectively.

These bills are in contrast to sweeping gun legislation passed this spring. 

In May, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed 'red flag' bills into law establishing extreme risk protection orders that would allow courts to remove firearms from individuals that the court deems are dangerous to themselves or others.

Laws on universal background checks for gun purchases and 'safe storage' penalties for those leaving firearms where they can be accessed by minors, were both signed earlier this year.

This isn't the first time state lawmakers have tried to push these types of bills through.

Similar resolutions have been introduced in several Michigan counties amid concern about restrictions on the right to keep and bear arms.

The movement has gained traction in states like California, Florida and Wisconsin. 

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