LANSING, Mich. — Legislation signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer mandates that Michigan state police must destroy firearms collected through community buyback initiatives or similar efforts. This new law, enacted on Wednesday, aims to ensure a complete destruction process for all firearms surrendered during these programs.

In 2024, Michigan state police acknowledged that their previous method of disposing of guns was inadequate. Under the old system, only the frame or receiver of the gun was destroyed, allowing a private company to recycle and sell the remaining parts. As a response to this issue, state police announced in March that they would now completely destroy all firearms handed over by local law enforcement, a commitment that has now been formalized into law.

Col. James Grady II, the director of the state police, emphasized that the current practice of ensuring all components of a firearm are destroyed will continue to be the standard moving forward. This policy reflects a commitment to firearm destruction that resonates with community expectations.

In 2023 alone, Michigan state police managed over 11,000 firearms, as stated by spokesperson Shanon Banner. The Rev. Chris Yaw from St. David’s Episcopal Church in Southfield expressed that the public strongly supports the destruction of guns following buyback events. His church has successfully collected hundreds of firearms in exchange for gift cards, and during a 2022 event, they saw a long line of vehicles stretching two miles.

The community’s demand for a rigorous and complete firearms destruction policy reflects a broader commitment to safety and responsible gun ownership within the state.