New legislation was introduced Tuesday in the Michigan House of Representatives that allows law-abiding citizens to carry concealed pistols without obtaining a government-issued permit.
The four-bill package is sponsored by Reps. Michele Hoitenga of Manton, Triston Cole of Mancelona, Sue Allor of Wolverine and Pamela Hornberger of Chesterfield Township.
"Responsible people shouldn't have to obtain a special permit from the government to exercise a right that is guaranteed in both the U.S. and state constitutions," Hoitendga said.
Some agree.
"Well, I am for the second amendment because it protects the rest of the constitution so we have to keep a strong second amendment, " says gun owner Scott Boeahme.
Some have mixed views.
"The concealed permit is part of the government trying to take more money," said gun owner Simon Paterson. " The other part of me thinks that you need the class that goes along with it."
George Motakias, firearms instructor and range safety officer at Total Firearms, says he supports the bills but gun owners should seek out adequate training.
"Even though they think they know what they are doing, people are not properly trained," he said.
Others say no .
"I really don't think it's a good idea," said Eric Jackson.
Jackson says he is still haunted by the shooting that killed his nephew.
"It's leaving me a little bit now," he said. " I play the piano at church, and I pray to God."
Jackson,along with many others, want the current rules to stay in place.
"No, it is not a good thing more guns equals more deaths, " Linda Brundage, Executive Director of Michigan Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence.
Stay with us, we'll let you know when the House Judiciary Committee votes on the bills.
