JEFFERSON CITY, MO – House Bill 1397 was pre-filed today for the 2016 session by Rep. Stacey Newman which would place new restrictions on firearm purchases in Missouri, mirroring similar restrictions for those seeking an abortion in the state.
“Since Missouri holds the rank as one of the strictest abortion regulation states in the country, it is logical we borrow similar restrictions to lower our horrific gun violence rates,” said Rep. Stacey Newman.
The legislation would require a 72 hour delay following an initial request to purchase from a licensed firearm dealer which must be located at least 120 miles from the purchaser’s residence, a licensed physicians’ written notice of approval and a list of risks and safeguards the physician must provide orally and in writing.
In addition, prior to the sale, the purchaser must view an officially approved thirty minute video on fatal firearm injuries, verify in writing the viewing took place in the presence of the firearm dealer as well as a tour of an emergency trauma center when gun violence victims are present. Before the purchase takes place, the buyer must meet with at least two families who are gun violence victims and two local faith leaders who have performed funerals for gun violence victims under the age of eighteen.
Rep. Newman explained, “If we truly insist that Missouri cares about “all life”, then we must take immediate steps to address our major cities rising rates of gun violence. Popular proposals among voters, including universal background checks and restricting weapons from abuser and convicted felons, are consistently ignored each session. Since restrictive policies regarding a constitutionally protected medical procedure are the GOP’s legislative priority each year, it makes sense that their same restrictions apply to those who may commit gun violence. Our city mayors and law enforcement drastically need help in saving lives.”
Currently St. Louis and Kansas rank among the top ten cities in the country with rising rates of gun violence, already outpacing their rates from 2014. Missouri also ranks first in the nation in toddlers shooting themselves or others.
