Michigan SB 853 would create a state license to sell firearms at retail; referred to Committee of the Whole
State bill SB0853 — Michigan — status: in committee
Official title: Occupations: business licensing and registration; license to sell firearms at retail; provide for. Amends 1927 PA 372 (MCL 28.421 - 28.435) by adding sec. 12c. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0854'26
What it does
SB 853 would add a new section to Michigan’s occupations code establishing a state-issued license specifically authorizing the sale of firearms at retail. The bill is tied to SB 854 and, as of May 19, 2026, has been referred to the Committee of the Whole. The text would create a separate state licensing requirement in statute; details such as fees, application procedures, and enforcement are set out in the bill text rather than existing law.
Industry impact
If enacted, the measure would create a new compliance obligation for businesses that sell firearms at retail: obtaining and maintaining the state retail firearms license in addition to any federal FFL requirements. That would likely add application and renewal paperwork, fees, and any state-imposed conditions or inspections memorialized in the bill, increasing administrative burden and operating costs for retail sellers. Manufacturers or NFA/SOT holders that engage in direct retail sales would also need to comply if the business activity falls within the statutory definition of retail sales. The change could require updates to sales processes and recordkeeping to demonstrate compliance with the new state licensing regime.
Latest official status: Referred To Committee Of The Whole
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Plain-English coverage generated with AI assistance and reviewed by our team. General information, not legal advice.