Michigan House Bill HB5746

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/18/26
• Refer: 3/18/26

Caption

Crimes: penalties; penalties for discharging a firearm at a motor vehicle; increase fines if a minor is in the vehicle. Amends 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.1 - 750.568) by adding sec. 234g.

Summary

HB5746 would amend the Michigan Penal Code to create a new felony offense for intentionally discharging a firearm at a motor vehicle that the shooter knows or has reason to believe is occupied. A violation would be punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The bill also creates an enhanced penalty when the shooter knows or has reason to believe a minor is in the vehicle. In that circumstance, the maximum penalty increases to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000, or both. The bill would take effect 90 days after enactment and may be cited as "Messiah's Law."

Impact

The bill would add a new section to the Michigan Penal Code, expanding the state’s criminal code to specifically address shootings directed at occupied motor vehicles. It would give prosecutors a distinct felony charge for this conduct and a higher-penalty version when a child is present, affecting defendants accused of drive-by or vehicle-targeted shootings and strengthening penalties for gun violence involving minors.

Sentiment

No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text and caption, the measure appears to be a public-safety and anti-violence proposal aimed at deterring shootings at vehicles, especially those involving children.

Contention

The main policy issue reflected in the bill is the severity of punishment: the proposal creates a substantial felony penalty and doubles the maximum exposure when a minor is in the vehicle. Potential points of contention would likely center on whether the enhanced penalties are proportionate, how intent and knowledge would be proven, and whether existing assault, firearm, or attempted murder statutes already cover the conduct adequately. No specific legislators, groups, or witnesses are identified in the provided record.