New online information concerning Michigan’s concealed weapons law, which goes into effect July 1, has area students and groups debating how the law will impact the state.

The law establishes statewide requirements for people who carry concealed weapons. It also requires permit holders to meet training requirements and prevents them from carrying guns in certain areas like daycare centers, schools and bars.

The Michigan State Police, which launched a Web site this week regarding the law, says the new law will likely add to the number of Michigan residents carrying a concealed weapon.

State Police Lt. Kari Kusmeirz said the Web site - www.msp.state.mi.us/CCW/ccw.htm - is in response to the number of questions her department has been receiving from both the public and other law enforcement agencies.

“If you have a (concealed weapon) you have to know what the laws are,” Kusmeirz said. “Like disclosing your firearm to police and that they are prohibited from carrying it in certain areas.”

State police have had meetings with other agencies about how the law will affect police officers.

“It won’t change procedure but it might increase law enforcement officials’ awareness that the person they approach might have a weapon and be aware of that,” Kusmeirz said. “We are educating them on how to obtain information on an individual they stop.”

Kelly Bremer is still fearful of the law’s impact.

“I think it is really scary. I don’t agree with it at all,” the English sophomore said. “I think a lot of people will abuse it.”

Others, like engineering freshman Mike Tavery, disagree, saying guns should be available for both protection and sport.

“I think it is a constitutional right that has been long-established,” he said.

Tavery, who uses firearms for hunting and sport shooting, said he would consider applying for a concealed weapon permit when he is 21.

Carolynne Jarvis, executive director for Michigan Partnership to Prevent Gun Violence, said the law speaks against the nonviolent problem-solving taught in schools.

“It sends a bad message to children to have adults carrying weapons to solve problems,” she said.

The group supports a referendum currently before the Secretary of State’s Office that would put the law on the ballot in November 2002, and delay its enactment until then.

More than 260,000 Michigan voters signed the petition.

Macomb County has used a similar system since 1995 and none of the 11,000 permit holders have been convicted for criminal misuse of the weapon - a reason causing Todd Adkins, department director of state and local affairs for the National Rifle Association, to applaud the law signed by Gov. John Engler in January.

“The law is extremely positive for Michigan citizens that have a desire to protect themselves and members of their family,” he said.