Missouri Governor Mike Parson is once again faced with a decision regarding the strengthening of penalties for celebratory gunshots, thanks to a mother’s tireless efforts. The proposal is currently in his hands.
During Monday night’s session, legislators addressed bills that will affect the lives of citizens. The lawmakers are currently in Kansas City discussing the recent session, highlighting the bills that are now awaiting Parson’s signature to become law.
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Sometimes referred to as “Blair’s Law,” this legislation was included in a criminal bill last year that was ultimately vetoed by the governor due to an unrelated provision. However, legislators are optimistic that this time around, the bill will be signed into law.
Missouri State Representative Mark Sharp (D-Kansas City) has taken the initiative to sponsor “Blair’s Law,” a legislation aimed at imposing stricter penalties for individuals who engage in celebratory gunfire.
“We had a significant advantage as the bill had already passed in the previous session,” Sharp expressed. “We are urging the governor to hold a ceremonial signing in Kansas City, as the unfortunate incident that led to Blair’s death occurred in this vicinity.”
Thirteen years ago on July 4th, an 11-year-old girl named Blair Shanahan Lane lost her life due to a stray bullet in Kansas City.
This year’s session is expected to produce only a handful of bills, and one of them is the bill under discussion.
The bill in question was discussed during a legislative session that was hosted by the South Kansas City Alliance, with John Sharp serving as the organization’s president. According to Sharp, the lawmakers were able to share their thoughts and insights about the session in an open and honest manner. Moving forward, Sharp remains optimistic that the bill will ultimately be signed into law by the governor.
According to the speaker, the bill was passed last year, but unfortunately, it was vetoed by the governor due to its inclusion in an omnibus bill along with some other provisions that he did not approve of. However, the current situation in Kansas City has made the residents realize that the homicide and violent crime rates, along with the random and celebratory gunfire, are not normal.
Authorities arrested and charged four men for recklessly shooting a pistol into a nearby lake.
The bill remains unsigned by Parson, however, it is expected to become law by August 28. The details regarding the signing ceremony are yet to be disclosed.
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