Some Democrats in the Legislature are calling for a law that would allow authorities to seize the firearms of people who threaten to commit suicide or hurt others.
State Rep. Robert Wittenberg, D-Oak Park, sponsored a bill that would allow a judge to issue an “extreme risk protection order.” The order would have to requested by a family member or a law enforcement official. And it could last no more than a year.
“We’re not taking someone’s Second Amendment rights away from them indefinitely,” he said. “This is saying that this person poses a threat to themselves and someone else and it’s in the best interest of them, their family, and the community to make sure they’re doing well before we actually let them have their weapon back.”
Kim Miles is a deputy Wayne County prosecutor. She says there is a hole in the law right now that requires authorities to wait until someone is hurt or killed before they can act.
“This type of legislation allows families and friends to protect their loved ones, as well as others in the community,” she said.
Wittenberg says four other states have similar laws.
The Legislature is also debating a bill that would allow anyone to legally carry a concealed firearm without getting training and a permit.
