Watch CBS News

Mass Shooting Text Alert Legislation Heading To Gov. Snyder

LANSING (AP) - Police in Michigan would be allowed to send cellphone alerts to warn the public of mass shooting incidents under a package of legislation sent to Gov. Rick Snyder.

The state House and Senate gave final approval Thursday to bills that were introduced following the Feb. 20 random slayings of six people and wounding of two others in the Kalamazoo area.

Former Uber driver Jason Dalton is charged with murder and attempted murder. Police have quoted him as saying a "devil figure" on Uber's app was controlling him on the night of the shootings.

Dalton's attorney has said Dalton is expected to plead insanity in his defense.

Rep. Jon Hoadley, a Democrat from Kalamazoo, said the legislation would allow police to craft criteria for when cellphone alerts would be sent.

© Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.