St. Louis, MO—Governor Matt Blunt signed into law a fundamental protection against gun confiscation during declared states of emergencies. The bill signing ceremony took place at NRA's Opening Celebration Friday afternoon at the America’s Center in St. Louis.
"I’d like to thank Governor Blunt for signing SB 257 into law," said Chris W. Cox, NRA's chief lobbyist. "This is a vital common sense, self-defense measure that ensures that law-abiding Missourians will be able to defend themselves and their loved ones during an emergency. When there is a breakdown in emergency services and law enforcement is involved in vital search and rescue missions, law-abiding people need an effective means of self-defense from looters and other criminals. Thanks to Governor Blunt for championing freedom and law and order."
"I am very pleased to sign legislation approved by Missouri's legislature to ensure that every single Missourian can keep their firearm during times of emergency," Governor Blunt said. "This important legislation guarantees that law-abiding citizens' freedom to bear arms will not be taken away, especially during an emergency. I applaud the Senate and House, and the bill’s sponsor, Senator Engler, for passing this important legislation."
SB 257, the Emergency Powers Protection Act, was sponsored by State Senator Kevin Engler and prohibits local and state authorities from confiscating legally-owned firearms from citizens during emergencies. The bill received overwhelming, bi-partisan support, passing 34-0 in the Senate and 150-2 in the House.
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Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services.