St. Joe-Benton Harbor News

State Representative Brad Paquette from Niles presented testimony for House Bill 4026, his inaugural bill of the term. The proposed legislation aims to extend the tax exemption on firearm safety devices. This bill is part of a bipartisan initiative co-sponsored by State Representative Natalie Price from Berkley. Both legislators advocated for their proposal before the House Committee on Finance.

“These two bills represent a pragmatic, bipartisan approach to promoting responsible gun ownership and enhanced public safety,” stated Paquette. He emphasized that removing tax barriers on essential safety equipment could help prevent tragic accidents and unauthorized access to firearms, especially by children and at-risk adults.

Paquette highlighted that these measures offer solutions to tragic incidents while respecting constitutional rights and encouraging responsible storage practices. The proposed amendments to the General Sales Tax Act and Use Tax Act would maintain the exemption for firearm safety devices until December 31, 2025.

“We want more people to be able to purchase and store their firearms securely, keeping them out of the wrong hands,” Paquette explained. “That is what removing these taxes will incentivize.”

The House Finance Committee unanimously approved both bills, which have now been forwarded to the full House for further deliberation.