The state House has adopted legislation that would exempt air-, spring-, and gas-powered guns from Michigan firearms laws.
We have more from The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Rick Pluta.
The legislation is backed by the NRA. Supporters says Michigan’s rules are stricter and out of step with most other states and the federal government. This would, among other things, make it easier to mail order air guns.
Democratic state Representative Jeff Irwin voted “no.” He says people who use an air gun to commit a robbery or an assault deserve to face firearms charges.
“What we’re doing here is, we’re taking tools away from our local prosecutors to hold violent criminals accountable,” he says.
The bills now go to the state Senate. Similar bills were vetoed last year by Governor Rick Snyder over technical issues. He’s expected to sign these bills once they reach his desk.