Missouri Lawmakers Tackle Surge in Youth Gun Violence Amid Economic Concerns
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Concerns are mounting among Missouri business groups that rising violent crime rates in the state’s urban areas may be stifling potential economic and tourism growth. As Missouri gears up for its legislative session, set to commence on January 8, 2025, nearly 50 firearm-related bills have been pre-filed, signaling a significant focus on gun control and crime prevention. Among the voices advocating for stricter gun laws is Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Democrat from Columbia. Smith is advocating for legislation that would prohibit the sale of automatic weapons to individuals under 21 … Read more