SS SB 13 -- FIREARMS MANUFACTURER LAWSUITS

SPONSOR:  Kinder (Byrd)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Judiciary
by a vote of 10 to 8.

This substitute prohibits political subdivisions and the state
from bringing a legal action against firearms manufacturers,
trade associations, or dealers for activities relating to the
lawful design, manufacture, or sale of firearms.  The prohibition
applies to suits pending as of the effective date of the
substitute and all future suits.

An exception allows political subdivisions to file an action
claiming a breach of contract for the purchase of firearms or
ammunition.  The substitute also specifies that the lawful
design, marketing, manufacture, or sale of firearms or ammunition
is not an unreasonably dangerous activity and is not a nuisance
per se.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the substitute is necessary to
prevent legal industries from being sued solely for
manufacturing, distributing, marketing, or selling a lawfully
designed product.  These types of lawsuits shift the blame from
criminals to manufacturers.

Testifying for the bill were Senator Kinder; and Missouri Chamber
of Commerce.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Julie Jinkens McNitt, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated July 25, 2003 at 10:13 am