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Around Michigan & State Government
Coverage from across Michigan and the state Capitol with the Michigan Public Radio Network and Interlochen Public Radio.

Bill would legalize stun guns in Michigan

Interlochen Public Radio | By Max Johnston
Published January 15, 2019 at 2:35 PM EST
U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jessica Snow

Rep. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) introduced a bill to legalize stun guns last week. She says it would give women more options for self defense.

"I carry a firearm with me for self-protection, but a lot of women ... aren't comfortable doing that," Hoitenga said.

Unlike tasers stun guns don't fire projectiles and are meant for close proximity.

If the bill passes anyone in the state over 21 could use and possess a stun gun for self-defense. It has been referred to the State House Judiciary Committee.

Stun guns are legal in Ohio, Illinois and Indiana.
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IPR News Michigan House of RepresentativesNorthern MichiganNewsMichele HoitengaAround Michigan & State GovernmentMantonWexford Countyconcealed weapons
Max Johnston
Max came to IPR in 2017 as an environmental intern. In 2018, he returned to the station as a reporter and quickly took on leadership roles as Interim News Director and eventually Assignment Editor. Before joining IPR, Max worked as a news director and reporter at Michigan State University's student radio station WDBM. In 2018, he reported on a Title IX dispute with MSU in his story "Prompt, Thorough and Impartial." His work has also been heard on Michigan Radio, WDBM and WKAR in East Lansing and NPR.
See stories by Max Johnston