36 - With Thursday's override

36 - With Thursday's override of Governor Bob Holden's veto of Missouri's concealed carry bill, within thirty days Missouri will become the latest "shall issue" state.

The Senate's 23-10 vote to override the veto met the bare minimum required for a two-thirds majority.

The House voted 115-43 Wednesday to override Holden's veto. The Senate's concurrence today means the measure will become law in 30 days without the need for Holden's signature.

Missouri becomes the 45th state to allow concealed guns in some fashion, although nine sharply restrict permits, according to the National Rifle Association.

The fight to legalize concealed weapons has been long and bitter in Missouri. Lawmakers had been rebuffed for years by former Democratic Gov. Mel Carnahan when they finally agreed to put the issue to a statewide vote in April 1999. The ballot measure -- the first ever in the nation on the issue -- was rejected by 52 percent of the vote, with strong urban opposition overcoming rural support.

As Kim DuToit notes:

Just out of interest, here are some statistics concerning CCW in the United States:

• "Shall Issue" states (must issue the permits if applicant is not legally disqualified): 36 states, 60.1% population, 60% Electoral College
• "May Issue" states (issuance is at the discretion of law enforcement): 9 states, 28.1% population, 28% Electoral College
• "Will Not Issue" states (forget it): 5 states, 11.8% population, 12% Electoral College

  Sounds to me like The People have spoken -- whether on a popular basis, or on a representative one.

And the train keeps rolling - Wisconsin looks very likely to repeal it's "No Conceal" law, opening the way for a very strong "Shall Issue" proposal very shortly. And Ohio's proposal seems to be proceeding as well.

Meantime, Minnesota's left is pulling out whatever stops it can to try to repeal our three month old law. More on these people and websites shortly.

(Via Spoons)

Posted by Mitch at September 15, 2003 06:00 AM