Capitol News

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes have addressed the issue of gun violence in a new episode of their podcast, "Pantsuits and Lawsuits." The episode features Emma Brown, executive director at Giffords, an organization focused on ending gun violence in the United States.

During the discussion, Brown described how Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) provide law enforcement with a court-supervised method to temporarily separate firearms from individuals considered dangerous. She noted that police departments that previously opposed ERPOs now depend on them. The conversation also referenced data showing that safe storage practices are linked to lower youth death rates, and discussed how distributing free gun locks by police and pediatricians can have real-world effects.

Nessel and Mayes addressed concerns about ghost guns and conversion devices. These items—such as unserialized firearm parts and forced-reset triggers—can undermine tracing efforts, avoid regulatory safeguards, and increase risks for both officers and communities.

“We’ve seen firsthand in Michigan how common-sense gun legislation can save lives,” Nessel said. “When states act and use tools like ERPOs and safe storage laws, we can prevent tragedies before they happen. I am grateful Emma was able to join us to share her expertise and for the work she continues to do to combat gun violence.”

The podcast aims to explain legal topics in accessible language for listeners. It covers significant legal cases, policy debates at both state and national levels, and discusses the role attorneys general play in justice matters. Episodes are released every two weeks on major podcast platforms.