This bill amends the Michigan Penal Code, specifically section 479b, to establish penalties for individuals who unlawfully take weapons from peace officers or corrections officers. The bill maintains the existing felony classifications for such offenses but introduces a new tier of punishment for taking firearms under certain conditions. If an individual takes a firearm from a peace officer or corrections officer while using force or violence, they could face a felony charge punishable by up to 15 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. The bill also clarifies the definitions of "peace officer" and "corrections officer" and updates the language to be gender-neutral.
Key changes include the insertion of specific circumstances that elevate the severity of the crime when a firearm is taken, such as the use of force or violence. Additionally, the bill modifies the language throughout to ensure it is inclusive, replacing gender-specific terms with neutral alternatives. The amendments also clarify that individuals can face multiple charges for different violations occurring during the same incident, and that sentences for these violations may run consecutively. The bill is set to take effect 90 days after being enacted into law.
Statutes affected: Substitute (H-1): 750.479
House Introduced Bill: 750.479
As Passed by the House: 750.479