There are several bills in the Senate and House which would loosen current gun laws in Missouri, however, House Bill 575 is now being a big problem.
This bill was introduced by Rep. Dean Dohrman this year. The original purpose of this bill was to create designated "resource" officers at colleges and universities.
On April 2, there was the second reading at the House, and Rep. Taylor added an amendment to bill 575. Needless to say, the bill was passed.
Rep. Taylor believes that concealed weapons make college campuses safer. He introduced a bill HB 258, which would allow anyone to carry concealed firearms on the college campuses. On the hearing, many college police chief from Missouri colleges and university, including UCM Police Chief, testified that they didn't support the bill. In fact, 75% of people who were at the hearing were opposed to the bill. This episode would tell you that Rep. Taylor's bill was not popular.
Knowing his bill wasn't going to be passed, Rep. Taylor added his proposal to the bill 575 which was more likely to be passed at the last minute.
A Republican representative claimed that she voted yes because she didn't hear any opposition from college faculty, staffs, or students.
Bill was passed 98-52. Surprisingly, 7 Republican representatives voted no. One of them said he voted no because there were so many attached to the bill.
To make a long story short, the bill our representative introduced has become something different, and something very dangerous to colleges and universities. As a member of the UCM family, this is not acceptable.
Now this bill is moving to the Senate. We will have another chance to stop this bill. If you agree with us that Missouri colleges and universities don't need more guns, please sign the letter attached to this email. I will personally bring them to Senator Hoskins' desk in Jefferson City.
There are several ways to make your voice heard by the senator.
- If you would like to call, text "MISSOURI" to 64433. It will connect you to your senator.
- Send a message to your senator online. Click here.
Also, Transportation, Infrastructure, and Public Safety committee will review this bill very soon. Please call Senator Libla to share your concern about HB 575. They keep track of calls.
- Sen. Doug Libla (Chairman) – 573.751.4843
If we don't show our concerns, they will pass this bill. We don't have time. Please share this information with your family and friends who work for Missouri colleges and universities.
