A St. Louis County lawmaker plans to file legislation that would require background checks on anyone who buys a firearm at a gun show.
State Representative Stacey Newman (D, Richmond Heights) says her proposal would close the so-called “gun show loophole” in Missouri.
“Right now, federal background checks are only done through licensed dealers," Newman said. "That exempts gun shows where people can purchase unlimited amounts of weapons, including assault weapons.”
Newman plans to file the measure during the first few days of session. She also says gun shows are an easy source for anyone looking to buy assault weapons.
“The majority of assault weapons that have been used in some of these horrendous...school shootings, are purchased through gun shows," Newman said. "It is legal to not have those background checks.”
Newman says her proposed bill would also require background checks for firearm purchases made through the Internet. House Republicans are backing a proposal to allow teachers to carry guns at school if they already have a conceal-carry permit. Missouri’s 2013 session begins Jan. 9.
Follow Marshall Griffin on Twitter: @MarshallGReport
