The pro-con discussion about where Michiganians should be allowed to carry concealed firearms has intensified for an obvious reason. 

Backers of legislation passed Thursday say it will let licensed owners respond to crimes and possibly stop a tragedy similar to Friday morning's massacre of 20 pupils and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. 

Birmingham Patch readers on both sides posted Friday:

  • "This bill is being supported by extremist fringe legislators who are willing to risk the lives of Michigan children and families for the sake of their misguided allegiance to the NRA." -- Randy Block
  • "If the only person who has the weapon is a properly trained individual, I dont see the problem, I see the solution." -- Connor Kelley
  • "This legislation is not what Michigan wants. . . . Let the people be heard. We cannot be held hostage by legislators whose fortunes turn on how well they're funded by the NRA." -- Jayne Hamilton
    • Read more: Detroit Free Press and Birmingham Patch