A bill that recently passed the state Senate would allow Michigan residents with concealed pistol licenses (CPL) to legally carry Tasers.
Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, voted for the measure, saying it will benefit public safety.
“These common sense reforms are about public safety,” he said. “Using a Taser is a nonlethal means for self-defense. Allowing someone who is already trained to carry a gun to use a Taser is a responsible policy that will enable the people of southwest Michigan to protect their families.”
Berrien County Prosecutor Art Cotter disagrees, arguing it could perpetuate crime rather than increase safety.
“Putting Tasers in the hand of the public is a very bad idea,” he said. “Anyone could come up to a lady and subdue them in a matter of seconds. It basically incapacitates them.”
Cotter also said it would be “extremely dangerous” for police officers, who could be incapacitated by criminals.
The potential legislation would allow CPL holders to possess the electro-muscular disruption device, commonly known as a Taser or “stun gun.” It would also require authorized dealers to provide training to CPL holders.
“Law enforcement officers in Michigan have been using Tasers for years,” Proos said.
Cotter counters that police officers have extensive training on how to use the devices and they are still sometimes mishandled. The proposed law would also prohibit individuals from carrying the devices while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The potential legislation has been sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.