BERRIEN COUNTY, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A new resolution is being considered by area leaders putting a show of support behind protecting gun rights.
The idea behind a resolution was first introduced by Baroda resident Jim Walker, who sent a draft to county commissioners on January 10th. In the following weeks, the board received dozens of messages from those in the county supporting the measure.
The proposed resolution written by Walker sought to make Berrien County a “Second Amendment Sanctuary,” and provide support for any law enforcement that objected to enforcing unconstitutional gun control legislation.
After some tweaks to the language, a new resolution will be discussed at an upcoming board of commissioners meeting on Thursday, February 13th.
Similar resolutions have either been enacted or under consideration by county governments across the state, following concerns by gun-rights activists of laws curtailing firearm ownership being passed on the state or federal level.
After Virginia passed legislation implementing red-flag laws and gun restrictions, a Facebook group named “Michigan for 2A Sanctuary Counties” exploded in popularity.
The group is just one of dozens of second amendment groups looking to solidify support for the second amendment, especially pushing for resolutions affirming support for gun-owners and objections to enforcement by police.
So far eight Michigan counties have passed similar resolutions to the one being considered in Berrien County.
Leaders in Lapeer, Mackinac, Cheboygan, Otsego, Presque Isle, Oscoda, Kalkaska, and Osceola counties have all approved sanctuary resolutions, with many more considering future language enshrining gun rights.
Previously at a January 23rd board meeting, commissioners Jon Hinkleman, Teri Freehling, Dave Vollrath, and Ezra Scott also said that they support the resolution moving forward. Some like Scott though objected to language involving law enforcement or using the term “sanctuary”.
A new draft was presented at a February 5th meeting framing the protections with different language, saying in part that the county “reaffirms their commitment and promise to support the Constitution of the United States, including the Second Amendment.”
A public meeting will be held where Berrien County Commissioners will review the draft proposal and allow public comment on February 13th at the Berrien County Administration Center on Main Street in St. Joseph.
