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Michigan Lawmakers Propose Changes to 'Dangerous' Knife Laws
New bill would allow carrying certain non-folding knives under 5 inches and expand 'hunting knife' exception to include 'fishing knives'
Feb. 6, 2026 at 9:15pm
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Michigan state lawmakers have introduced a new bill that would modify the state's current laws around carrying certain types of knives in public. The proposed legislation would allow the carrying of double-edged, non-folding knives shorter than 5 inches and expand the existing 'hunting knife' exception to also include 'fishing knives'.
Why it matters
The current Michigan law banning the public carry of double-edged, non-folding knives has been criticized by some as overly restrictive, particularly for activities like hunting and fishing. This new bill aims to loosen those restrictions while still maintaining some limits on the types of knives that can be carried.
The details
The bill, introduced by state House Republicans, would change the definition of a 'dangerous' knife under Michigan law. Currently, it is illegal to carry a double-edged, non-folding knife in public. The new legislation would allow the carrying of such knives as long as they are shorter than 5 inches in length. The bill would also expand the existing exception for 'hunting knives' to include 'fishing knives' as well.
- The bill was recently introduced in the Michigan State House and has been sent to the Committee on Judiciary for consideration.
The players
Michigan State House Republicans
The group of Republican lawmakers in the Michigan State House who introduced the bill to modify the state's knife laws.
What’s next
The bill will now be reviewed by the Committee on Judiciary before potentially moving forward in the legislative process.
The takeaway
This proposed change to Michigan's knife laws reflects an ongoing debate around balancing public safety concerns with individual rights and the needs of certain outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for how other states approach similar knife legislation.
