Missouri bill aims to put a ban on celebratory gunfire

May 21—Celebratory gunfire could soon be banned in Missouri, among other things, as state lawmakers sent a large public safety bill to Gov. Mike Parson for approval.

This piece of the bill known as Blair's Law is named after an 11-year-old Kansas City girl who was killed by a stray bullet from celebratory gunfire on July 4, 2011.

If approved by Parson, it will establish stiffer penalties for recklessly discharging a firearm, making it a class E felony on a second offense.

Local officials worry that celebratory gunfire is a growing problem in Missouri and has taken many innocent lives.

"Anytime that you discharge a firearm in an indiscriminate location or direction, it's very irresponsible and can cause serious bodily injury to someone," said Frank Till, executive director of the St. Joseph Safety and Health Council. "In the case of the young lady Blair, who this bill is named after, unfortunately, it can even be deadly."

With Memorial Day weekend and other important holidays approaching, safety officials are reminding the public to find safer ways to celebrate among friends and family.

"When you're out celebrating this weekend, on the Fourth of July or any of these other holidays, firearms should be completely locked up and not within reach," Till said. "There are safer ways to celebrate than firing a gun. You've got to consider all the lives at risk. That young girl's family will be forever affected by her death. It's been 12 years since her mom's been working on this bill and she's finally getting that closure and even with this closure, during that specific holiday it will always be remembered."

Senate Bill 189 has been sent to Parson's desk and is awaiting a signature.

Jenna Wilson can be reached at jenna.wilson@newspressnow.com.