Whitmer said in a news release that the new laws will protect voters and election workers. "Together, we are creating a safe environment for voters to make their voices heard," she said. The bills come after Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson in 2020 issued a directive banning open carry of guns at the polls that was struck down in the Michigan Court of Claims.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed two House bills into law that make it illegal to possess a firearm at polling locations across the state.