What House Bills 5653-5657 Means for Your CPL

Under current Michigan law, you need a valid concealed pistol license to carry a concealed firearm. However, Michigan Constitutional Carry 2026 could become a reality if House Bills 5653-5657 are passed. This package of bills amends Michigan laws to allow eligible residents to carry a concealed pistol without a license.

While the bills still have to pass and be signed off on by the governor, the mere fact that they have been introduced is a huge step in the right direction for Livonia, MI, gun owners. Several years ago, the idea of permitless carry in Michigan seemed like an impossibility. Now, it could happen this year.

Learn more about these important Michigan gun law updates and how they could impact you if passed, along with some practical tips about how to maintain your CPL and continue being a responsible gun owner.

If you are due for a renewal, take a CPL refresher course at Uncoiled Firearms. It’s a great way to brush up on your skills and the latest laws.

What “Michigan Constitutional Carry 2026” Actually Means

Permitless carry, also known as constitutional carry, is the ability for lawful gun owners to carry a concealed firearm without a government permit. If the HB 5653-5657 package is passed, Michigan would become the 30th state to adopt constitutional carry.

Pro-Second Amendment advocates consider the change a huge win for gun rights. However, there are some concerns about individuals carrying firearms with zero training.

Fortunately, dozens of other states have already implemented permitless carry laws, and there has not been any significant reported uptick in accidental discharges or other firearms-related accidents in those areas. The change appears to offer a net benefit.

Quick Breakdown of House Bills 5653-5657

Michigan House Bill 5653 is the most important, as it would remove the requirement to obtain a permit before carrying a concealed firearm in Michigan. The remaining House Bills in the package, particularly HB 5657, make updates to Michigan statutes to remove penalties for permit less carry.

All of the bills must pass together, which is why they are bundled together. The bills are currently awaiting a decision from the House Judiciary Committee before they are put up for a vote.

If the state legislature passes them, the bundle of bills will be sent to the governor’s desk for signatures.

How This Affects Michigan’s CPL System

As part of the proposed changes, these bills would repeal the mandatory 8-hour training course and County Clerk application fees. If the bundle passes, carrying a concealed pistol without a permit would no longer carry a five year felony penalty.

The state CPL system will remain available. However, it would be strictly voluntary and optional. Still, attending a firearm training course and obtaining your CPL can be beneficial. The training course will bring you up to speed on current laws and provide you with valuable firearm safety basics.

What You Should Do About Your Current or Expiring CPL

Currently, you still need a CPL in Michigan in 2026. If your CPL is set to expire, it is wise to renew it. Renewing your CPL is also important if you travel so you can benefit from reciprocity laws. Maintaining a CPL also exempts you from the background check process when you purchase new firearms.

The bottom line is that there are plenty of reasons to have a CPL, especially if you’ve already gotten licensed.

Maintain your CPL to enjoy the benefits outlined above. You’ll also be able to lawfully carry with your CPL, even if the HB bundle is not passed.

Impact on Gun Owners in Livonia and Across Michigan

House Bills 5653-5657 represent one of the biggest changes to Michigan gun laws in decades. The biggest day-to-day impact on Livonia gun owners is that those who are lawfully allowed to own a firearm would no longer need a permit for concealed carry.

As a concealed carrier, you would also be free from the stress of worrying about whether your permit has lapsed. Under the current laws, lawful gun owners could be criminally charged for carrying a concealed firearm with an expired permit, even if it’s an honest oversight.

The proposed changes would eliminate this concern.

Changes to “Pistol-Free Zones” and Where You Can Carry

The bundle also proposes some changes to pistol-free zones, such as churches and bars. While individual organizations could decide to prohibit firearms on private property, the proposed changes would roll back state-level restrictions.

As a firearm owner, you are responsible for adhering to posted signage and restricted federal areas.

Training, Safety, and Practical Next Steps

Even if the HB bundle is passed, it’s up to you to carry your firearm responsibly. Seek CPL-equivalent training at a local Livonia range. You’ll learn about Michigan’s strict safe-storage laws and gain tips for handling your weapon safely.

Carrying a firearm, with or without CPL laws, means taking on huge civil liability and responsibility. Take it seriously.

What Michigan Constitutional Carry Means for Travel and Reciprocity

CPL reciprocity in Michigan isn’t changing. However, reciprocity laws apply specifically to CPL holders. You won’t enjoy any reciprocity if you go permitless. The only way you can lawfully carry in another jurisdiction is if that state also allows permitless carry for out-of-state residents.

If you travel out of state with your firearm, keeping your CPL active is the most practical option.

Tracking Michigan Gun Law Updates and Bill 5653 Progress

If you have been asking, “Do I need a CPL in Michigan?” 2026 laws still say yes. While this package of bills could change all that, you currently need to adhere to all CPL licensing requirements. Follow the Michigan legislature website to track these bills.

Regardless of the outcome, invest in training so you can be a safe, proficient gun owner. Uncoiled Firearms offers courses so you can apply for a gun license in Michigan, and our team also offers plenty of other training options.