Downriver Today

Michigan leaders are touting a new proposal that seeks to curb gun violence across the state.

According to a news release provided by the state government, the program is called Operation Safe Neighborhoods. Its objective is to get illegal guns out of the hands of people who legally do not have authorization to possess a firearm due to their criminal history.

“Every person in Michigan, no matter where they live or who they are, deserves to live freely and safely in a way that enables them to be their best selves,” Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, a Democrat, said in the release. “When we take real action to support police-community relationships, we can put in place policies that prevent crime in the first place. 

"I am encouraged to see this progress," he added. "We look forward to continuing to invest in all of the mechanisms available to us to create communities where every person feels safe, with their needs met, knowing that the state of Michigan is invested in their future.”

During the first half of 2022, more than 450 Michigan residents have died as a result of gun violence. When violent crimes are reported in Michigan, roughly one in three involve a firearm.

“As a former prosecutor, public safety is a top priority for me. Michiganders deserve to feel safe as they go to work, drop their kids off at school, or run errands in their neighborhoods,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, also a Democrat, said in the release. 

“While the annual crime report showed that, thanks to our work, crime is flat in Michigan, there is more work to do," she added. "That’s why we launched this program to tackle crime and gun violence—two inextricably linked issues—simultaneously. We are working with law enforcement and state and local officials to prevent gun violence in Michigan in the wake of recent shootings.”

Whitmer added that she earmarked portions of the budget for communities to add additional law enforcement personnel in an effort to reduce crime and get illegal guns off the street.

“I have partnered with attorneys general across our country to address the proliferation of illegal firearms and get these weapons off our streets,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “People who circumvent the legal process for obtaining a firearm pose a serious threat to our communities. I will continue to enforce the law and hold criminals accountable.”

The measure seeks to assist Whitmer's Michigan Safe Communities program that was established in summer 2021. It aims to direct more money toward education, jobs and the justice system.