© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Selected stories from the WKAR NewsRoom in your morning email. SUBSCRIBE HERE

Snyder Vetoes Concealed Gun Bill

WKAR File Photo

Governor Rick Snyder has vetoed legislation that would have allowed people with concealed pistol permits to carry their guns in school buildings. 

The bill would have eliminated gun-free zones – such as schools and daycare centers – for people with concealed pistol permits and some enhanced training. The sponsors say allowing concealed weapons would make those places safer. Governor Snyder says he never bought into that argument, and that schools ought to be able to ban guns.

He says the Connecticut school shooting reinforced his thinking.

“Even before this terrible tragedy, I had serious issues with this bill,” he says.

Michigan allows people to openly carry firearms in public places where they are not expressly forbidden. Principals and administrators do still have wide authority to control who and what is allowed in a school building.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
Related Content
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.