A bill to close a loophole in Michigan’s concealed gun law is expected to get a House committee hearing when the Legislature reconvenes next month.
The result will determine who can carry a firearm into a school building.
Concealed guns are not allowed in schools. But a confusing loophole allows people with a concealed pistol license to openly carry a firearm on school property.
State Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof’s solution is to ban openly carrying firearms in schools. But he wants to permit concealed pistols in schools, as well as stadiums, churches, and other places they’re currently not allowed.
He says this issue should not get bogged down in the gun rights debate.
“It’s not the time to argue should we have guns or not. The guns are already there.”
The bill cleared the Senate earlier this year. But school officials say it should be up to them to make decisions on how best to create a safe and peaceful learning environment.