DISARMING A PRIVATE SECURITY POLICE OFFICER

House Bill 4229

Sponsor: Rep. Edward Gaffney

Committee: Criminal Justice

Complete to 4-11-03

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4229 AS INTRODUCED 2-13-03

Taking a firearm or other weapon from a peace officer is a felony offense under the Michigan Penal Code. "Peace officer" is defined in this provision of law as a police officer, sheriff or sheriff's deputy, public safety officer of an institution of higher learning, or a conservation officer of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or U.S. Department of Interior.

House Bill 4229 would amend the penal code (MCL 750.479b) to include in the above definition of "peace officer" a private security police officer employed by a hospital or medial center who was authorized by law and by the governing board of that hospital or medical center to enforce the laws of this state and the rules of the hospital or medical center.

[Private security police officers are employed by licensed private security businesses and regulated under the Private Security Business and Security Alarm Act (MCL 338.1051). They have limited arrest powers and may be authorized to carry a pistol. The authority to carry a weapon and to make warrantless arrests is limited to the hours of employment and may be exercised only on the premises of an employer for the purpose of protecting that property.]

 

Analyst: S. Stutzky

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This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.