Do Gun Shows do Background Checks in Missouri?
The debate surrounding background checks at gun shows in Missouri has been a hot topic of discussion in recent years. As the state’s firearm laws continue to be challenged and debated, it is essential to understand what kind of background checks, if any, are required for gun show transactions in Missouri.
Background Checks and Missouri Law
Missouri state law does not mandate that gun shows conduct federal background checks on all prospective gun buyers. However, in 2011, a Missouri law was enacted requiring licensed firearms dealers at gun shows to conduct the required federal background checks prior to transferring a firearm.
Contents
What Kinds of Background Checks Are Required?
• Licensed Dealers at Gun Shows: Licensed dealers are required to conduct background checks on prospective buyers prior to transferring a firearm.
• Private Sellers: Private sellers at gun shows are not required to conduct background checks.
Federal Background Checks for Private Sellers
In 2014, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) was expanded to require federal background checks on private sellers at gun shows, with some exceptions.
Exceptions
• Gun Show Loophole: A provision in Missouri state law allows private sellers at gun shows to legally circumvent federal background checks.
• Out-of-State Transfers: Private sellers who sell firearms to non-Missouri residents may opt-out of conducting background checks.
Broadly Licensed Dealers v. Non-Licensed Private Sellers
It is essential to differentiate between broadly licensed dealers and non-licensed private sellers when it comes to conducting background checks.
• Broader Licensed Dealers: Broadly licensed dealers must conduct federal background checks, register with the state, and pay fees.
• Non-Licensed Private Sellers: Non-licensed private sellers are not required to conduct background checks or pay fees.
Gun Show Background Check Proponents
Some proponents of federal background checks at gun shows argue that:
• Background Checks Prevent Gun Violence: Mandatory background checks help to prevent firearms from being purchased by individuals who should not have access to them.
• Closing Gun Show Loophole: Proponents argue that eliminating the gun show loophole by mandating background checks at all gun show transactions could lead to a reduction in gun violence.
Gun Show Background Check Opponents
Some opponents of federal background checks at gun shows argue that:
• Gun Rights: Opponents contend that background checks violate individual gun rights and hinder responsible gun ownership.
• Law-Abiding Citizens: Opponents argue that most gun show attendees are law-abiding citizens and should not be subject to the additional burden of federal background checks.
Data on Gun Show Sales and Background Checks
According to a report by the Missouri Association of Police Chiefs, a total of 1,243 firearms were sold without a background check at the annual Kansas City Gun and Knife Show in 2020. This data underscores the importance of addressing the gap in background checks for gun show transactions.
| Data | 2020 Report |
|---|---|
| Total Guns Sold | 1,243 |
| Background Checks Performed | 443 (35.6% of total sales) |
| No Background Checks Conducted | 800 (64.4% of total sales) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Missouri gun shows do not consistently conduct federal background checks, although licensed dealers are required to do so. While there are proponents and opponents of background checks at gun shows, it is crucial to recognize the importance of responsible gun ownership and safety in Missouri. As debates continue to surround gun rights and public safety, Missouri’s laws and regulations may undergo changes to address these concerns.
Recommendation: Missouri lawmakers should reconsider and reform the state’s laws to require federal background checks for all gun show transactions, including private sales, to ensure public safety and responsible gun ownership.
Sources:
- Missouri State Auditor’s Office (2020)
- Missouri Association of Police Chiefs (2020)
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (2019)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020)
This article aims to provide an objective overview of the complex issue of background checks at gun shows in Missouri, highlighting both the legal and societal implications.
