Michigan Gov. Snyder Vetoes Concealed Weapons Bill

On Tuesday, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed a bill that would have allowed Michigan residents to carry concealed weapons in the state’s churches, schools, and daycare centers. 

Snyder said after the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, he wanted to take a more “holistic” approach in trying to prevent gun violence. He said “this type of violence often leaves society with more questions than answers” and the “reasons for such appalling acts usually are numerous and complex.”

“While we must vigilantly protect the rights of law-abiding firearm owners, we also must ensure the right of designated public entities to exercise their best discretion in matters of safety and security,” Snyder said. “These public venues need clear legal authority to ban firearms on their premises if they see fit to do so.”

Snyder also noted issues dealing with “disenfranchised youth and mental health services” also needed to be addressed. 

“While the bill’s goal is to help prevent needless violence, Michigan will be better served if we view it through a variety of lenses,” Snyder said. “A thoughtful review that examines issues such as school emergency policies, disenfranchised youth and mental health services may lead to more answers and better safeguards.”