Taylor files bill to close domestic violence loophole

‘Common-sense’ gun safety measure would save lives

Rep. Del Taylor (MOHDC)

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — State Rep. Del Taylor, D-St. Louis, has filed legislation to close a loophole in Missouri law that permits domestic abusers to obtain and possess firearms.

“Keeping lethal weapons out of violent hands is a common-sense reform that will protect vulnerable survivors of domestic violence and save lives,” Taylor said. “While we must respect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, those who present a clear, immediate harm to their children, significant others, or other family members have no business possessing firearms.”

Under current Missouri law, courts may issue orders of protection against domestic abusers and stalkers, and judges may institute various forms of relief that include prohibiting the respondent from entering the domicile of the petitioner, communicating with the petitioner, awarding custody of children, and many more. However, a Missouri judge cannot prevent a respondent from buying or owning a gun or ammunition.

While federal law does prohibit domestic abusers from possessing firearms or ammunition, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed a law in 2021 that effectively asks the state’s judicial system to ignore federal gun statute and punish law enforcement officers that attempt to enforce those laws.

Taylor added that this legislation has enjoyed some bipartisan support in the past, particularly from former state representatives Ron Hicks, a Republican from St. Charles County who carried identical legislation in 2022, and Tracy McCreery, a Democrat from St. Louis County who now serves in the state Senate.

Taylor’s bill is House Bill 1135.