In 2018, Missouri ranked second in the nation, behind Alaska, in the number of women killed by men. Among Missouri women murdered by their intimate partners, 80% were killed with guns.
For several years now, lawmakers have attempted to close a loophole to make it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to own or access firearms.
"In these situations where there is domestic violence and a firearm, women in particular are five times more likely to be killed. It does seem like a no-brainer for us and I don't really understand the arguments against it," said Annie Struby, Blueprint for Safety Coordinator at the Rose Brooks Center of Kansas City.
Senator Lauren Arthur (D-Clay Co.) is sponsoring the bill to reduce the possibility of death by an abuser.
"My bill would do three things. It would make it a crime under the Missouri law for anyone who's been convicted of domestic violence to possess or own a firearm, it allows courts to prohibit a person under a restraining order from having or buying a gun while the order is in effect and it requires the court to inform the Missouri state highway patrol and the FBI when a person is convicted of domestic assault."
- Sen. Lauren Arthur, (D-District 17) Missouri state senator
- Annie Struby, Blueprint for Safety Coordinator at the Rose Brooks Center of Kansas City