Whitmer approves Red Flag Law despite Sheriff opposition in Michigan.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a red flag law to prevent individuals at risk of harming themselves or others from accessing firearms. The law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order, allows individuals close to someone to request a judge’s intervention to temporarily remove firearms if there is a perceived risk of harm to oneself or others.

Joining a Dozen States with Similar Laws

Michigan now joins more than a dozen states that have already implemented similar red flag laws. The legislation will come into effect 90 days after the conclusion of the current legislative session.

The bill signing ceremony took place near Detroit, where Whitmer was joined by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who has been an advocate for gun safety since surviving a gunshot wound to the head in Tucson, Arizona, in 2011.

“Today, Michigan joins the ranks of other states that have enacted Extreme Risk Protection Orders. The time for only thoughts and prayers is over. We know that we cannot keep living like this. Action is needed to keep us safe,” Whitmer said in a statement.

How the Law Works

The new law enables family members, police, mental health professionals, roommates, and former dating partners to petition a judge for the removal of firearms from individuals considered to be an immediate threat to themselves or others.

The judge must decide on a protection order within 24 hours of receiving the request. If granted, a hearing will be scheduled within 14 days, where the flagged individual must demonstrate they do not pose a significant risk. Typically, the protection order lasts for one year.

Sheriffs Oppose Law

Despite the bill’s signing, multiple sheriffs in the state have voiced opposition and declared their refusal to enforce the law. The sheriff of Livingston County, for instance, publicly stated that red flag laws are unconstitutional and would not be upheld by his office.

Additionally, more than half of the counties in Michigan have passed resolutions declaring themselves Second Amendment sanctuaries.