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SB 77

Weapons: firearms; references to pistol in penal code; update. Amends secs. 223 & 232a of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.223 & 750.232a). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0076'23

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Anthony and 19 co-sponsors

Michigan updates penal code firearm language, replacing "pistol" references with modern terminology to clarify and standardize how existing gun crimes are defined and prosecuted.

referred to Committee on Judiciary
#weapons:firearms
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Bill Summary · SB 77

Legislative bill overview

SB 77 updates Michigan's penal code language by replacing outdated references to "pistol" with modern firearm terminology in sections 223 and 232a of the 1931 Michigan Penal Code. The bill is tied to SB 76, suggesting coordinated legislative action on related firearm definitions and penalties. This is a technical/clarification bill rather than a substantive policy change.

Why is this important

Outdated legal definitions can create confusion in law enforcement, prosecution, and court interpretation. Modernizing statutory language ensures that firearm regulations apply consistently to all relevant weapons under current understanding. This affects how existing firearm crimes are charged, prosecuted, and penalized across Michigan.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what terminology replaces "pistol"—critics may argue the new definitions are unclear or don't adequately cover emerging firearm types
  • Retroactive application concerns: Questions about whether updated language applies to past convictions or only future cases could affect sentencing consistency
  • Partisan interpretation: Gun rights advocates and gun control proponents may disagree on whether modernized definitions expand or restrict what weapons are regulated under each statute section

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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