MICHIGAN, USA — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Thursday that she has launched a Gun Violence Prevention Task Force by executive order.
The task force will be a part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
The task force will work to prevent gun violence in the state by developing and recommending laws and policies that could decrease gun violence rates. The force will also suggest how current gun violence prevention policies and funding could be maximized, identify factors that contribute to gun violence and collect data on gun violence in Michigan.
This announcement comes about a week after a mass shooting at a Detroit area splash pad left nine people injured, including multiple children.
“Michiganders deserve to feel safe everywhere—whether they’re picking up their kids from school or grocery shopping for the week ahead,” said Gov. Whitmer. “That’s why I’m establishing the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, aimed at reducing the rates and instances of gun violence in Michigan. Let’s build on the work we did last year enacting commonsense gun violence prevention laws—background checks, safe storage, extreme risk protection orders, stronger penalties for domestic abusers, and greater investments in mental health and local law enforcement—to keep families safe. I want to thank all of the Michiganders who have been strong advocates for reducing gun violence, including the families of the four Oxford students, for working with us to get this done. Together, we can reduce violence and save lives.”
Gov. Whitmer will be working to appoint task force members. The members will include representatives from the health department, law enforcement, the Board of Education and other related departments.
Members of the public with the appropriate experience or expertise are also welcome to apply. If you're interested in being a part of it, you can submit your application here.
Read the full executive order here.
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