Why Are Stun Guns Illegal in Michigan?

Stun guns and Tasers are becoming popular self-defense weapons for both consumers and law enforcement. However, many state laws and regulations regulate these devices, which can be confusing for those new to them.

For instance, some states prohibit possession of stun guns and Tasers in sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals, prisons, and other places that may require extra protection. Others only allow them if a permit is issued.

Possession

Stun guns and Tasers are a type of self-defense device that can be used to temporarily disable a target with an electrical charge. They are different from firearms, and they fall under the definition of a “contact weapon.”

State Representative Michele Hoitenga introduced legislation last February to allow people who are CPL holders to carry stun guns for self defense. She said the bill will help women and elderly people who are uncomfortable carrying a gun.

The Michigan House approved the plan Tuesday with bipartisan support. It allows concealed pistol license holders to possess a Taser, which shoots barbs up to 15 feet.

It also says that all stun guns must be accompanied by a booklet detailing how to use and what the risks are. Anyone who violates this law is guilty of a public offense, and it is an infraction that carries a fine.

Use

Stun guns are designed to temporarily incapacitate a person. They are often referred to as “less-lethal” weapons because they require physical contact and are not meant to kill or cause serious injury.

A stun gun works by using a set of electrodes to create a painful shock when it touches the body. These devices are available in many models, including compact options that fit in a purse or pocket.

The Michigan Department of State lists a stun gun as an illegal weapon. It is not permitted for personal use unless it has been specifically authorized by the owner and circumstances surrounding the use of the device.

Damsel in Defense, an Idaho-based international organization that sells non-lethal defense tools to women and the elderly, is lobbying for the law to be changed. Representative Michele Hoitenga of Manton is supporting the bill and believes it will pass. She hopes to lower the age of people who can own a stun gun from 21 to 18.

Training

Stun guns, also known as Tasers, are illegal in Michigan outside of law enforcement and a few other limited exceptions. The devices are designed to disable people temporarily by firing two prongs that can penetrate clothing and deliver an electrical charge.

Supporters say stun guns are less lethal than firearms, and that courts have ruled that total bans on these defensive weapons violate the Second Amendment. But opponents argue that Michigan’s ban does not go far enough and cite the death of a Belleville man in Washtenaw County last year.

State Representative Michele Hoitenga and the organization Damsel in Defense have supported legislation to allow citizens to possess stun guns under the state’s concealed weapon laws. The bill, which passed the House with bipartisan support last week, is now awaiting approval by the Senate.

Locations

A stun gun is a device that uses electrical current to temporarily disable a person or animals. These devices are also called Tasers and are legal in Michigan, but only for law enforcement and individuals with concealed pistol licenses.

A recent bill introduced by Rep. Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, would lift the state’s ban on stun guns to allow them to be sold and possessed by adults 21 and over. The bill, which has received support from Damsel in Defense, an Idaho-based group that sells non-lethal defense tools to women and the elderly, aims to help those who are uncomfortable carrying a firearm.

Knowing the right laws and penalties when you carry a stun gun in Michigan can be key to protecting your legal rights and reputation. If you have questions about stun guns, or if you are facing criminal charges for violations of Michigan’s stun gun statutes, you should not hesitate to contact the experts at O’Keefe Law for help.