The Michigan House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee unanimously approved bipartisan legislation authored by state Rep. Matt Hall (R-Emmett Township) protecting citizens with concealed pistol licenses from unfair prosecution in the event they simply forget to renew their license.

Under current Michigan law, CPL holders found in possession of a concealed pistol one day after his or her license expires can be charged with a felony punishable by up to five years in prison or a $2,500 fine. Under Hall’s measure, House Bill 4434, a CPL holder who is found concealed carrying within one year of his or her CPL expiring and is eligible for renewal would be subject to a civil infraction and a $330 fine. If the individual renews his or her CPL within 60 days of the citation, the fine will be waived.

Rep. Carter introduced an amendment which addresses subsequent infractions within the one-year window. Under Rep. Carter’s amendment, an individual would be given a 90-day misdemeanor and fined $500.

“I enjoyed working with Rep. Carter to make this legislation better and address everyone’s concerns,” Hall said. Carter’s amendment was unanimously adopted.

“A felony conviction forever changes a person’s life,” Hall said. “It hurts their ability to find a job, suitable housing and his or her constitutional right to possess a firearm is suspended. It is completely unfair for an otherwise law-abiding gun owner to become a felon because of a paperwork oversight.

“We are taking action because the current punishment doesn’t fit the crime. A CPL holder must pass a criminal background check and strict firearm training. These are law-abiding citizens. It’s important we protect them with common-sense criminal justice reform.”

House Bill 4434 now moves to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

PHOTO INFORMATION:  State Rep. Matt Hall testifies before the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee on April 30.