Bills introduced this session in the MO House and Senate would allow individuals with conceal/carry permits to carry firearms on public transit buses, vans, trains and other spaces owned or operated by a public transit provider. While intended to improve safety and protect Second Amendment rights, it’s crucial Missourians understand the unimaginable risks and why the Missouri Public Transit Association and all transit providers statewide adamantly oppose it.

Just like on airplanes and Amtrak — where guns are not allowed — public transit vehicles are enclosed, moving environments that pose imminent danger for passengers and operators should an accidental discharge or planned attack occur.

The largest Missouri transit providers provide tens of millions of rides each year and have publicly expressed opposition to conceal and carry on transit. That’s why transit officials in both rural and urban areas are working to enhance safety programs including working directly with law enforcement agencies to increase police presence on systems. Real-time camera centers and systems are serving as force multipliers; a $52 million, state-of-the-art security plan is being implemented in St. Louis; and partnerships have been established to connect riders in need of mental health assistance with providers at several agencies. OATS is in the process of implementing a real time camera system on its vehicles. Transit safety is being addressed each day.

Finally, the ATU which represents thousands of transit operators in the state is adamantly opposed to these bills as they inherently place their members at risk. These operators are essential to ensuring our communities continue to have good access to jobs, education and healthcare.

Other organizations like Greater St. Louis, Inc.; City of Kansas City, and Missouri Public Transit Association have all testified previously in opposition to these bills. Transit is having a significant positive economic impact on our state to the tune of more than $4 billion annually. Impairing the ability of transit providers to deliver service with a bill like this will impact the state’s bottom line. This bill is personal to transit riders across the state, and arming transit riders is not the answer to enhancing the safety and security of these systems. Just as guns are not allowed on Amtrak or an airplane, they shouldn’t be allowed on transit.

“Timing on this bill is still not known, but it is more critical than ever for CMT members, operators and riders across the state to weigh in against this bill with their Senator.   Stories from their constituents and providers in their respective districts are going to have the most impact,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of CMT.

Please weigh in today.  Missouri Senate Contact Information and Districts available here.