News & Media
Firearm Safety in Michigan: Awareness and Action
Michigan has recently made significant changes to its firearm laws in an effort to improve public safety and reduce gun violence. These changes cover a range of critical areas, including emergency risk orders, background checks, safe storage, and restrictions related to domestic violence convictions. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is promoting firearm injury prevention resources to help keep families safe. Firearm injuries are now the leading cause of death among children and adolescents in the U.S., including Michigan youth ages 1–19.
“Firearm injuries are preventable, and everyone has a role to play in preventing these tragedies,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Gun violence is a public health crisis that affects the well-being and safety of all Michigan residents, which is why Michigan is taking a strong public health approach to addressing this issue.”
The MDHHS Firearm Injury Prevention webpage provides information on safe storage requirements, penalties for noncompliance, and a firearm safety fact sheet. A flyer and public service announcement further explain the importance of Michigan’s new safe storage law. As part of this effort, MDHHS and the Michigan State Police are distributing free cable-style gun locks through local MDHHS offices and select health departments. Locks are available while supplies last, with additional access through Project ChildSafe partners across the state.
Michigan also updated its criminal code to include a firearm possession ban for individuals convicted of domestic violence, whether a misdemeanor or felony. The move aligns state law with federal standards and aims to prevent known abusers from accessing weapons. In 2022, at least 59 people were killed in domestic violence-related incidents in Michigan, with over half involving a firearm. This new restriction is expected to help lower those numbers over time.
Michigan’s Gun Violence Prevention Task Force is also working to reduce firearm-related deaths. Composed of medical experts, state leaders, law enforcement, tribal representatives, and community advocates, the task force recently released recommendations focused on suicide prevention, community violence, school safety, intimate partner violence, and stronger implementation of existing laws. The group is now developing an implementation roadmap and exploring opportunities for collaboration and funding.
Together, these initiatives reflect Michigan’s commitment to treating gun violence as a public health issue, combining legislation, education, and community partnerships to save lives.