Legislation from state Representative Pauline Wendzel seeks to clarify Michigan’s law regarding non-lethal self-defense options. She says the bill modifies the definition of “self-defense spray or foam device” to include a device capable of carrying, and ejecting, releasing, or emitting pepper spray, including through a cartridge or projectile. Currently, the cartridge or projectile portion the bill seeks to add is not allowed under Michigan law. Wendzel says a constituent approached her about the problem. A CPL instructor had several clients who weren’t comfortable carrying a firearm and were looking for alternative ways to defend themselves. He found a product he wanted to recommend, but after consulting with an attorney, learned under the current laws, a person defending themselves could find themselves on the end of a lawsuit. Wendzel says House Bill 5694 doesn’t amend the mixture or components of what goes into pepper spray. It simply cleans up a grey area of state law to allow for a new way to dispense or use what is already legal for Michigan residents. The bill is before the state House Judiciary Committee.
