The month of April begins with several new developments on NRA-backed legislation in the state of Missouri.
Campus Carry Legislation is on the Move
House Bill 2698 was voted “Do Pass” by the House Committee on Emerging Issues led by tireless pro-gun Chairman Elijah Haar. HB 2698 now moves to the Select Committee on General Laws. Sponsored by state Representative Jered Taylor (R-139), HB 2698 would remove restrictions in state law that prohibit law-abiding right to carry permit holders from being able to protect themselves on college and university campuses. Missouri Concealed Weapons Permit holders do not present a threat to public safety, as they are one of the most law-abiding segments of the population. These individuals should not be prevented from exercising their right to self-defense simply because they choose to seek a college education.
Yesterday, another NRA-backed bill was heard by the Committee on Emerging Issues. House Bill 1938, sponsored by state Representative Ron Hicks (R-107), would allow permit holders to carry concealed on property and vehicles used for public transportation, including buses and metro. Current law prevents individuals from carrying a firearm for self-defense on public transportation or in any terminal/facility used for public conveyance.
Additionally, Senate Bill 656 has been referred to the House Committee on Emerging Issues. Sponsored by state Senator Brian Munzlinger (R-18), SB 656 specifies that except for credit card fees incurred, no additional fee beyond $100 may be charged to process concealed carry permits and allows military members extra time to renew their permits. SB 656 was unanimously passed by the Missouri Senate.
The following three pro-gun bills are heading to the House Floor this month:
House Bill 2057, sponsored by state Representative Mike Bernskoetter (R-59), would specify that, except for credit card fees incurred, no additional fee beyond $100 may be charged to process concealed carry permits and allows military members extra time to renew their permits.
House Bill 1828, sponsored by state Representative Joe McGaugh (R-39), would allow certain people who have lost their right to possess firearms to have their rights restored under certain circumstances.
House Bill 1468, sponsored by state Representative Eric Burlison (R-133), would allow all law-abiding individuals to carry a concealed firearm anywhere that isn't expressly prohibited by law. HB 1468 would also recognize your right to legally carry a concealed firearm without having to obtain a permit, allowing law-abiding gun owners the ability to better protect themselves and their families.
Please click the Take Action button above to contact your legislators in favor of these pro-gun bills. Your NRA-ILA will continue to update you on these bills as they make their way through the Missouri Legislature.