Extreme risk protection order: What to know if needed
The University of Michigan has published a web-based toolkit designed to support the
use and implementation of Michigan's new extreme risk protection order, or ERPO, law.
Also known as a red flag law, Michigan's ERPO law went into effect in February with
the goal of intervening when someone is at risk of using a firearm to harm themselves
or others.
The free digital toolkit, developed by the University of Michigan Institute for Firearm Injury Prevention, provides guidance on Michigan's ERPO policies and protocols, how and when to file
an ERPO, and information for families, health care providers and networks, schools
and law enforcement and government agencies. The toolkit also provides crisis assistance
resources.
"Extreme risk protection orders have been shown to be an effective tool in preventing
firearm-involved suicides," said April Zeoli, associate professor of Health Management and Policy at the University of Michigan
School of Public Health and policy core director at the institute.
Families and household members, including current and former spouses, dating partners
and roommates, and anyone who has a child with the person at risk, can petition a
court to issue an extreme risk protection order. Law enforcement officials and health
care providers, including licensed mental health workers, can also petition a court
for a protection order.
For individuals being served an ERPO, which is a civil action and does not generate
a criminal record, the toolkit provides information on what the order means for respondents,
what steps typically need to be taken as the respondent, and what protections are
available for respondents.
ERPO laws have been passed in 21 states and Washington, D.C. The toolkit includes
a list of those state's laws.
Research has shown that when there is proper implementation and rigorous training, ERPOs are
used as intended.
"Ensuring these laws are evidence-based and the implementation is carried out appropriately
is key to ERPOs being used effectively," Zeoli said. "We are proud to launch this
resource to help all Michiganders learn about this new law, what it means, how it
can be used and why this prevention strategy is used by 21 other states to assist
in reducing firearm death and injury."