Firearms Records Will Be Protected

Governor Rick Snyder has signed a package of bills protecting the privacy of firearms owners. The bills, signed yesterday, exempt firearms records from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Supporters say the measure is a response to a New York newspaper that last year published names and personal addresses of gun permit holders in two counties north of New York City. One of the sponsors, Republican Aric Nesbitt of Lawton, says the private records of law-abiding citizens who are practicing their Second Amendment rights will now be protected from public exposure. The legislation allows full access of firearms records to law enforcement officials who are seeking information in the course of their official duties. A log of who accessed the records and the reason for doing so is now required by the new laws.