A provision in Michigan's HB6285 eliminates suppressor sales as a lawful product line for most small firearms retailers—unless they hold a specific federal license.
Most Michigan gun shop owners and gunsmiths don't realize that HB6285—a bill focused on firearm regulations—contains a provision that directly restricts their ability to sell, manufacture, or even possess suppressors (also called mufflers or silencers). Understanding what this law does is essential for anyone in the firearms retail or gunsmithing business.
HB6285 amends sections 222, 224, and 231 of Michigan's 1931 Public Act 328 (MCL 750.222 et seq.) and repeals section 224b. The key provision for small business owners is found in the renumbered Section 224(1)(b).
Under this section, any person or business that manufactures, sells, offers for sale, or possesses a suppressor or muffler faces felony liability—up to 5 years in prison, a $2,500 fine, or both. This applies to gun shops, licensed firearms dealers (FFLs), and gunsmiths.
There is one exception: businesses that hold a federal license issued by the Secretary of the Treasury are carved out and permitted to handle suppressors. This federal licensing requirement is specified in Section 224(3)(c) of the amended law.
The practical impact falls on small and mid-sized firearms retailers and gunsmiths. If your business manufactures, stocks, or services suppressors—whether as a primary product line or a secondary service—HB6285 creates felony-level criminal exposure unless you hold the specific federal Treasury license.
For most retail gun shops and independent gunsmiths, obtaining and maintaining that federal license involves additional regulatory compliance beyond a standard FFL. This effectively eliminates suppressors as a lawful product line for the majority of Michigan firearms businesses.
HB6285 contains no explicit effective date provision in the bill text. Under Michigan law, this means the law takes effect upon enactment—immediately when signed into law. There is no transition period or grace period for existing inventory or business practices.
If your business currently sells, manufactures, or possesses suppressors, you should:
Review your current inventory and service offerings. Determine whether suppressors represent a material part of your revenue or customer base.
Consult with a Michigan business attorney. An attorney familiar with firearms law can advise you on compliance options, including whether pursuing federal Treasury licensing is feasible for your operation.
Check the status of the bill. Confirm whether HB6285 has been signed into law and when it becomes effective.
This is a significant regulatory change that requires prompt attention. The felony liability threshold is strict—possession alone triggers exposure—so waiting is not a safe strategy.
This explainer is based on the text of HB6285 as introduced. For business-specific guidance on compliance, licensing options, or the current status of this bill, consult a Michigan firearms law attorney or your industry trade association.