I ran across this news item regarding a proposed change to the Missouri State Constitution.
"The amendment would define the right to bear arms as "unalienable" and require the state to defend against any "infringement" of that right. It would also include keeping ammunition and defending one's "family" with a firearm as guaranteed constitutional rights.The state constitution already protects the right to bear arms in defense of an individual's home, property and person. Supporters contend the measure would force courts to use a higher standard of review when considering the constitutionality of gun controls."One thing I found interesting was the mention of a failed initiative vote to require a shall issue permit system which even though spending in favor of the initiative greatly outspent its opponents, it still failed. After the failure to pass the legislation by initiative, it ended up being passed through the legislature.It will be interesting to see how this fares when it comes up for a vote.
Fortunately, I'm not seeing in the flowery language of their state constitution that allows a similar tactic to be used to amend it. While, I whole heartedly support this particular amendment, I am uncomfortable with the ability of a legislature to go against the clearly stated will of the voters.
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