Suppressor laws in Michigan are filled with specific regulations that can seem to cast a wide net across multiple hobbies. While suppressors have long been associated with gun enthusiasts, many of Michigan’s hemp growers and cannabis users could benefit from learning about suppressor laws in Michigan and the overlapping issues they can bring into the cannabis scene.
Cannabis enthusiasts and green thumbs alike may benefit from taking some time to regularly review any Michigan State legislature changes that could impact their activities. From new regulations or changes to existing laws, the cannabis scene in Michigan has certainly provided an opportunity for green thumb aficionados to stay up to date on the state’s legislature. The following will look at some of the details surrounding suppressor laws in Michigan that cannabis enthusiasts can find useful.
Suppressor laws in Michigan are found under MCL 750.227 Ammunition silencers:
An ammunition silencer is defined as “any device for diminishing the report of any ammunition for firearms, but shall not be construed as any mechanical device or device integrated in the design of a firearm such as a piston operated slide lock system, the barrel of a firearm or any other firearm designed or manufactured to operate without making a significant noise when fired.” (2016 House Bill 6004)
Note that a suppressor or silencer does not include a piece of equipment that is built in or is part of the firearm design or otherwise integrated into the weapon. (i.e. a rifle with a barrel shroud is not defined to be an ammunition silencer)
It is important for cannabis enthusiasts to understand about the types of applicable paraphernalia that will be able to be covered under the Michigan laws. Knowing what constitutes an ammunition silencer versus what does not can help you to know if an amendment to the law passed by the Michigan legislature applies to you.
Cannabis enthusiasts can very often be confused about the different applications of various laws and regulations that can be related to their hobby. Always consider what your needs are or could be in the absence of certain equipment or tools that might be regulated under Michigan law. Avid cannabis users, for instance, who understand the different options available through cannabis dispensaries, like silica mats, or various dabbing devices, sprinklers, and lighting systems are important to understand from both a legality and usability factor.
It is understandable that cannabis enthusiasts and growers will appreciate knowing about certain laws such as the suppression of firearm noise and the public’s interests in having laws in place that can help in the protection of other citizens in the case of possibly dangerous acts.
Certain activities in Michigan have a high possibility of overlapping with the laws surrounding suppression. This is further amplified by the fact that Michigan also allows marijuana cultivation, distribution, and usage. As cannabis enthusiasts are suspected to be familiar with both the land and local laws, their knowledge about the intersection of cannabis and these laws can be inconsistent and possibly inaccurate. When trying to recall what duties and limitations fall under suppressor laws in Michigan, cannabis enthusiasts may find it more difficult to remember due to the generalized nature of the application of suppressor laws.
Rather than going through the many possibilities of states or local districts where issues might arise for cannabis enthusiasts when dealing with suppressor laws in Michigan, it is far easier to look at the law’s history to find out how the law has been applied in the past. In the past, Michigan’s law as it relates to suppressors was consolidated under one section of the Michigan Compiled Subsection. However, new language was added indicating that ammunition silencers are separate from other firearm accessories.
Ammunition silencers specifically are defined as a feature that can diminish the report of ammunition for firearms. Nowhere in the law is it mentioned that such silencers are to be considered legal under the law. However, common sense suggests that there are unspecific references to permissible ammunition silencers. Additionally, given that no other specific prohibitions or penalties are mentioned, it would be easy to misconstrue or be misled about the practical interpretation of the law.
Just as with all other laws, knowing the exact text of the law is imperative. From MCL 750.227 to MCL 750.222, the broader discussion of the surrounding statutes relative to weaponry can reveal a lot about the laws of the past and the intent behind the proposed legislation.
It is always advisable to keep in mind the changing laws and ordinances of the state and local areas. Each of these laws can easily be amended or added as local, regional, and state-wide interests are raised regarding different issues. Discretionary practices that are permitted under the law can also help to guide you when determining what type of preservation of the public order is anticipated.
Michigan’s neighbor’s Indiana and Wisconsin have much stricter farreir laws than Michigan and because of this, these laws are supported. While gun enthusiasts and avid hunters may be a small minority of the state, their needs should still be fairly met. However, they should also take into consideration that the rights of other citizens could also be impacted by the legislative choices that they support.
Cannabis enthusiasts and growers have changed the dialogue within the state and have helped to give interest in the need for more permissive rights to use and cultivate cannabis… so much so that the state might be redefined by the emergence of alternative uses for hemp and marijuana in alternative therapy and medicine.
Remember… when in doubt, always consult with an attorney to better understand the intersection of these laws.
For more information on firearm laws, you can visit the Wikipedia page on gun laws in the United States.
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