The package of bills called the “Castle Doctrine” bills, or also referred to as the “Stand Your Ground” legislation, were discussed today for the second day in a row in the House Judiciary Committee. Several gun rights groups spoke in favor of this legislation including the National Rifle Association,

the Michigan Coalition of Responsible Gun Owners, the Great Lakes Shooting Sports Association, SAFR, and others.

There were some opposed such as the Million Moms March. There were also some who expressed some legitimate concerns, specifically the Prosecuting Attorney’s Association of Michigan represented by John Hallacy, Prosecuting Attorney of Calhoun County and Chairman of the Calhoun County Gun Board. Mr. Hallacy expressed that granting blanket immunity from criminal prosecution could in reality produce an unintended consequence of a criminal using this law to shield himself from criminal prosecution. I am certain that these concerns will be addressed further with our law enforcement community so ensure that in our effort to protect the law-abiding citizen that we do not protect the criminals in our society.

Also notable was the firm support of Representative Mike Nofs from Battle Creek, a member of the House Judiciary Committee. Together with the other representatives, this legislation was passed out of the Judiciary Committee where it will move to the Floor of the House of Representatives to be debated. We will continue to monitor this legislation and keep you informed.