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Michigan wonders: what was the big deal about "shall issue"?
An article in Detroit Free Prees
"Ten years after Michigan made it much easier for its citizens to get a license to carry a concealed gun, predictions of widespread lawless behavior and bloodshed have failed to materialize.
Today, nearly 276,000 -- or about four out of every 100 eligible adult Michiganders -- are licensed.
That's more than twice the number predicted when the debate raged over whether Michigan should join the growing ranks of so-called "shall issue" states.
. . . . . . .
Anti-gun activists say changing the law was a grave mistake. The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence Web site describes state reforms like the one enacted in Michigan as "a recipe for disaster."
Michigan's prosecuting attorneys association led the push against changing the law in 2001. Today, Ionia County Prosecutor Ronald Schafer, president of the group, says it's hard to remember what the fuss was about.
"I think you can look back and say, 'It was a big nothing.' ""
It was a big something to all those folks who have used their guns in deterrence or self defense...a VERY big something. Lives saved, crimes prevented...I'm certain there have been more than a couple out of a quarter million plus permits issued...and perp-critters now have to decide if they're feeling lucky when they size up a potential victim... Well, do ya? Punk?
Hopefully soon there'll be more than just 4% deterrence out there. 40% packing would be a real deterrent.