Michigan residents who are victims of domestic violence and stalking would be allowed to carry a concealed weapon in a gun-free zone to better protect themselves under a plan unveiled today by state Rep. Rodney Wakeman.

The Saginaw Township lawmaker said his plan would allow individuals who have filed an active personal protection order (PPO) to carry a concealed weapon in a gun-free zone.

“We need to pursue common-sense solutions to help better protect people who are at a higher risk of being victimized,” Wakeman said. “Criminals do not follow the law and they may take advantage of the vulnerability of gun-free zones – places where a survivor of domestic abuse and stalking cannot fully defend themselves – to violate a PPO.”

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in six women and one in 19 men in the U.S. have experienced a stalking situation in which they felt fearful or believed they or someone close to them would be harmed or killed.

Wakeman noted that domestic violence victims are already allowed to receive temporary concealed weapon permits under current law to help better protect themselves. His plan provides even greater protections.

“We’ve seen time and time again here in Michigan violent criminals having no issue violating a PPO to contact a victim,” Wakeman said. “My legislation would further empower Michiganders who are survivors of abuse.”

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