Missouri Governor Matt Blunt Signs<BR>Emergency Powers Protection Into Law At NRA Annual Meeting

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.