State Rep. James DeSana today announced his efforts to eliminate state permit requirements to carry a concealed pistol in Michigan.

House Bills 5653-57 would establish Michigan as a “constitutional carry” state. This would have the state of Michigan recognize the ability to carry a concealed pistol as a right directly protected to Americans under the Second Amendment.

“Twenty-nine states have already established constitutional carry in their state law, including Ohio and Indiana,” said DeSana (R-Carleton). “I joined my colleagues Reps. Fox, DeBoyer, Hoadley, and Smit to fight for my strongly held belief that this right already exists in both the U.S. Constitution and the Michigan Constitution. I believe the vast majority of citizens would agree that we should follow the U.S. Constitution.”

DeSana went on to slam the disparities in how the current law is applied.

“Concealed carrying a pistol without a permit is a felony that could land you in prison for five years in Michigan,” DeSana said. “In California, it’s only a misdemeanor. It doesn’t make sense. By finally getting rid of these permit requirements in our state, we would be sending a clear message; Michiganders have a firm commitment to the rights clearly outlined in the Second Amendment.”