Guidelines

Firearms are allowed at the rally (with exceptions).

Open and concealed carry (with a CPL) are allowed outside the Capitol building. No firearms are allowed in the building.  Metal detectors at entrances.

Guidelines and laws

Michigan has different laws for those with concealed pistol permits (CPL) and those without one. You can open carry long guns and pistols without a CPL on the grounds of the Capitol building but not inside.  You need a CPL to carry a concealed handgun in Michigan

Handgun transport without a CPL

750.231a (d) To a person while transporting a pistol for a lawful purpose that is licensed by the owner or occupant of the motor vehicle in compliance with section 2 of 1927 PA 372, MCL 28.422, and the pistol is unloaded in a closed case designed for the storage of firearms in the trunk of the vehicle.

(e) To a person while transporting a pistol for a lawful purpose that is licensed by the owner or occupant of the motor vehicle in compliance with section 2 of 1927 PA 372, MCL 28.422, and the pistol is unloaded in a closed case designed for the storage of firearms in a vehicle that does not have a trunk and is not readily accessible to the occupants of the vehicle.

Any person 18 years and older who can lawfully possess a firearm can openly carry a long gun or a handgun (Handgun must be lawful for that person) on Capitol grounds. Firearms are also allowed on public streets and sidewalks.

Bars and restaurants

Some people may want to have lunch or dinner in one of the many businesses in downtown Lansing. For those that don’t have a CPL, you CAN NOT possess a firearm in any place that has a liquor license unless you have permission from the owner or agent of the business, and then only if you open carry.  If you have a CPL you MUST open carry in those places.  But private property can ban firearms.

A great overview of these laws is the Michigan State Police Legal Update #86 which can be found here.

For more information on Open Carry go to http://www.miopencarry.org/faq