Jackson County Executive vetoes gun restriction ordinance

11/14/2024 6:00pm: Update to previously reported story. 


County Executive Frank White, Jr. has exercised his veto power against Ordinance 5865, a proposed measure targeting firearm regulations within Jackson County. Citing significant legal conflicts and impracticalities, White returned the ordinance to the Jackson County Legislature, explaining in a formal veto message that it “remains fundamentally flawed, unlawful, and counterproductive.”

In a statement addressed to the Jackson County Legislature, County Executive White emphasized the ordinance’s conflict with Missouri’s preemption law, which prohibits local jurisdictions from imposing firearms regulations that go beyond state law. The County Counselor’s Office advised that Ordinance 5865 would likely prompt costly litigation from the state, specifically from the Missouri Attorney General’s Office, which would burden Jackson County taxpayers without yielding tangible benefits for public safety.
 
“While I am steadfast in my commitment to protecting our community, I cannot support legislation that is unlawful, unenforceable and exposes Jackson County to costly legal battles,” White said. “I have never hesitated to challenge the state when it serves the public interest, as evidenced by our prior opposition to House Bill 85, but we must ensure that our actions are both necessary and legally sound.”
 
In a November 14th release, White outlines his concerns regarding the ordinance:

1. Violation of State Preemption Laws and Financial Consequences: Ordinance 5865 disregards state law by attempting to impose firearm restrictions that are not supported by Missouri or federal statutes. The County Counselor warned that this would make the ordinance unenforceable and expose Jackson County to inevitable legal challenges, potentially leading to a significant drain on taxpayer resources.
2. Contradictory Provisions: Ordinance 5865 would introduce confusing discrepancies in firearm restrictions, allowing minors under 18 to use firearms in certain circumstances while prohibiting young adults aged 18-20 from similar lawful activities, such as hunting or target shooting.
3. Inconsistent Restrictions on Firearm Purchases and Use: Ordinance 5865 conflicts with both federal and state laws concerning handgun and ammunition purchases for individuals under 21, further undermining its enforceability and public safety objectives.
4. Unenforceable Restrictions on Semiautomatic Assault Rifles: Ordinance 5865’s restrictions on semiautomatic assault rifles for young adults aged 18-20 contradict existing state preemption statutes, which makes enforcement impossible and invites unnecessary legal challenges.

“I urge the Legislature to reconsider this ordinance and to focus on sustainable, common-sense public safety initiatives that do not conflict with state law,” said White. “Jackson County deserves policies that are effective, responsible and avoid needless litigation.”


Original post (11/14/2024 7am): County passes ordinance restricting firearm possession by individuals under 21

​During the November 4th Legislative session, the Jackson County Legislature passed Ordinance 5865 which seeks to restrict firearm possession by individuals under 21 and impose new age-based limitations.

Sponsored by Legislator Manuel Abarca IV, the ordinance aims to address the growing concern of youth gun violence in Jackson County. The ordinance has its roots in a series of discussions Abarca hosted with youth over the summer, where dozens of local students gathered to talk openly about the impact of gun violence on their lives and communities.

The feedback from these sessions highlighted that many young people feel affected by and vulnerable to rising gun violence.

“This ordinance represents the voices of our youth and addresses a request from law enforcement for tangible action on this issue. Gun violence prevention is a top concern for our community, and this ordinance is a step toward protecting our residents, especially young people”, Abarca stated in a release following the vote.

Ordinance 5865 includes key provisions such as prohibition on purchases, controlled possession, and training and service exceptions.