LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – State Sen. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) introduced a bill that would allow anyone with a valid concealed pistol license to carry while inside the Michigan Capitol.

The introduction of senate Bill 468 comes after the Michigan State Capitol Commission voted last month to implement new security procedures to ban guns within the Capitol and install weapons detection systems at each building entrance. Those new rules mean current legislators who possess a valid concealed pistol license are exempt from the weapons ban. Hoitenga’s bill would extend that exemption to all valid concealed license holders.

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“Law-abiding citizens shouldn’t be forced to give up their rights when visiting their state Capitol, nor should they be treated any differently from the lawmakers who they elected to represent them in Lansing,” said Hoitenga. “All CPL holders receive a background check and state-licensed instruction; they should maintain their constitutionally protected right to carry in self-defense, even while inside the Capitol building. Democrats care more about pandering to their radical base than actual public safety.”