The bill amends section 6 of the 1966 PA 189, which outlines the procedures for law enforcement officers executing search warrants. It introduces new provisions that require officers to announce their identity and purpose before attempting forcible entry into a residence, and to wait a reasonable period for admittance. If entry is denied after these steps, officers are permitted to break in if they believe it is necessary to protect themselves or others, or if they suspect that announcing their presence would hinder an investigation.

Additionally, the bill specifies circumstances under which officers can enter without prior announcement, such as imminent danger or awareness of their presence by individuals inside. It mandates that if such circumstances exist, the officer must include relevant information in the warrant application, including details about occupants and any known disabilities or animals present. The bill also stipulates that forcible entries must occur between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. unless otherwise authorized, and that officers must be in uniform or clearly identifiable as law enforcement during such actions.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 780.656