SB 123 -- FIREARM MANUFACTURERS

SPONSOR:  Kinder (Hampton)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on
Sportsmanship, Safety and Firearms by a vote of 8 to 0.

Under this bill, the design, manufacture, marketing, and sale of
firearms or ammunition is not an unreasonably dangerous activity
and does not constitute a nuisance in and of itself.

The bill prohibits the state, and political subdivisions within
the state, from bringing suit against any firearms or ammunition
manufacturer relating to design, manufacturing, marketing, and
sale to the public.

The bill allows actions regarding breach of contract or warranty
for firearms or ammunition purchased by the state or political
subdivision.  Nothing in the bill will be interpreted as
limiting any properly cognizable action at law or equity by a
person or corporation other than the state or political
subdivision.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the manufacture of firearms and
ammunition is not considered a dangerous practice.  The bill
would cut down the number of frivolous law suits being filed
against gun manufacturers and retailers.

Testifying for the bill were Senator Kinder; Missouri Chamber of
Commerce; and National Rifle Association.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Bob Dominique, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated November 26, 2001 at 11:47 am