South Michigan News

State Representative Andrew Fink has expressed strong opposition to House Bill 6185, which is set to be discussed in an upcoming House Judiciary hearing. The bill has sparked controversy among Republicans, who argue it targets the firearm industry and impedes lawful gun ownership.

Fink issued a statement highlighting his concerns: "This legislation effectively suggests that a manufacturer of a product that Michigan citizens have a constitutional right to use, keep, and own could be held liable for the proper functioning of said product."

He drew an analogy between the proposed legislation and holding car manufacturers accountable for vehicles used in crimes. "This would be like a car manufacturer being sued for a vehicle being used to intentionally harm another individual. The driver should be responsible for that crime, not the manufacturer," he stated.

Fink further argued that if firearms are used criminally, accountability should lie with the perpetrator rather than the manufacturer. He emphasized, "Firearms are dangerous, and if a person commits a crime using one, they must be held responsible. But to place blame on a manufacturer is senseless."

The representative concluded by characterizing the bill as an indirect attempt to dismantle Michigan's firearms industry: "The reality is that this legislation is essentially a shadow ban attempting to eliminate Michigan’s firearms industry. If Democrats want to ban firearms, they should just be open and honest about their intentions."