technically,696.02 is not illegal.
696.02. Carrying weapons in public places.
No person shall carry any firearm, air rifle, bow and arrow, slingshot, crossbow or other dangerous weapon in any public place, subject to the following exceptions:
(a) When it is in a case and is not loaded;
(b) In the case of a bow or crossbow, when it is unstrung or encased, or when it is being carried under the direct supervision of authorized public recreational personnel; or
(c) Where and as otherwise permitted by State law.
(Ord. No. 739, 12-22-86)
It is just purposely confusing.
If(and probably when) we attend a city council meeting,we could push for it to be revoked because it is rather useless anyways,i would like to see this one modified too:
696.01. Discharging weapons.
(a) No person shall fire or shoot any firearm, air gun, spring gun, bow and arrow, slingshot, crossbow or other dangerous weapon in any street or public place, or fire or shoot such a weapon in any place in a manner that would endanger, or be likely to endanger, any person or property, subject to the following exception(s):
A person who is an authorized participant in an approved recreational shooting program under the authority of the Lansing Police Department or Department of Parks and Recreation may use any of the following:
(1) Bows and arrows, and
(2) Crossbows.
I believe that air guns,spring guns and slingshots should be given an exception for recreational shooting programs as well,i doubt there would be much opposition to that request.