Great Lakes Wire

Michigan State Police (MSP) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have joined forces to safeguard children from the dangers of unsecured firearms. The collaboration, funded by $500,000 from the FY24 MSP budget, involves the distribution of 75,000 cable-style gun locks to be made available for free at MDHHS county offices and select local health departments.

In a statement, Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, emphasized the importance of the initiative in preventing tragedies related to firearm violence. She stated, “Our department is devoted to improving the safety and well-being of Michigan children…implementing gun locks are going to make a difference when it comes to prevention efforts around firearm safety.”

Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, referenced the newly enacted Safe Storage (Child Access Prevention) Law in Michigan. He stressed the importance of safe storage practices and accessibility to gun locks to prevent injuries and deaths, stating, “Because this law seeks to prevent injuries and deaths, we want to make safe storage as easy and accessible as possible…”

Under Public Act 17 of 2023, individuals are required to keep firearms unloaded and locked if a minor is present or likely to be present on the premises. Failure to comply with the Safe Storage Law can lead to criminal responsibility for improper firearm storage in the presence of a minor.

Michigan residents are encouraged to visit their local MDHHS office to request free gun locks, with some local health departments also offering the safety devices. Additionally, MDHHS staff conducting home visits will have access to gun locks for clients in need. The distribution of gun locks is part of a broader effort to enhance firearm safety and prevent unintentional injuries.

Gun lock installation instructions are provided with each device, ensuring that Michigan families have the necessary tools to secure firearms and protect their children.