SB 965 Summary

• Adds definitions to Michigan penal code including "barrel length," "brandish," "pneumatic gun," "short-barreled rifle," and "short-barreled shotgun."

• Expands felony penalties for carrying firearms during felony commission: 2 years imprisonment for first offense, 5 years for second offense, 10 years for third or subsequent offense, with mandatory consecutive sentencing and no parole eligibility.

• Prohibits transporting loaded non-pistol firearms or certain pneumatic guns in vehicles unless unloaded and either taken down, enclosed in a case, in trunk, or inaccessible; violation is misdemeanor with up to 90 days imprisonment or $100 fine.

• Increases penalties for weapons violations in weapon-free school zones, with separate felony and misdemeanor provisions depending on the specific violation and whether it is a first offense.

• Prohibits teaching or demonstrating firearms/explosives use or assembling for training with such devices if intended for use in civil disorder; violation is a felony.

• Effective January 1, 2015, contingent on enactment of Senate Bill 979.