When I read the Feb. 28 editorial opposing concealed weapons, I was surprised to see such extremely misleading and factually incorrect information.

First, the editorial claimed that a sheriff "wouldn't be allowed to reject permits to non-convicted domestic abusers, gang members or people he suspects might be mentally unstable." In fact, our bill would suspend the concealed weapons permit of anyone against whom a domestic order of protection is in effect. Our bill also prevents persons who are adjudged mentally incapacitated from carrying concealed weapons.

In short, our bill respects our American system of due process. It keeps concealed carry permits out of the hands of those whom our justice system has determined to be ineligible, including domestic abusers, the mentally incapacitated, felons, persons fleeing arrest and people who commit firearms misdemeanors.

Second, the editorial tells bold untruths by saying that "carrying hidden guns would be permissible in restaurants, movie theaters, stores, public parks, schools, daycare centers, libraries and churches." In fact, the owner of any restaurant, movie theater, store or other private facility would have the sole discretion to allow concealed weapons, or to exclude them, by simply posting a sign. So, while carrying concealed weapons may be permissible in these areas, it may be impermissible as well.

Also, our bill specifically prohibits concealed weapons in schools, daycare centers and churches, unless the officials in charge of those facilities affirmatively approve the carrying of concealed weapons.

Finally, any political subdivision of Missouri could choose to prohibit or allow concealed weapons in their buildings -- including the Capitol, wherein, despite the false claims of the editorial, concealed weapons are not automatically banned. The exemption you referred to deals solely with meetings of the General Assembly, meaning only those exact times and places wherein legislators are doing official business.

The editorial also cast aspersions on gun proponents' use of the Sept. 11 tragedy as a reason to pass our legislation. Seventy-three percent of airline pilots disagree with you. And the Airline Pilots Association has asked the Department of Transportation to allow pilots to carry guns, stating that "arming flight crew members will be in accord with congressional intent and significantly decrease the likelihood of a future hijacking."

You may think that guns could have done nothing to prevent these tragedies, but the pilots overwhelmingly disagree.

I ask that those who disagree with my point of view be responsible in reporting the facts of the legislation, and not print the misleading and false information that was in the editorial.

Rep. Wayne Crump
Majority Floor Leader
Missouri House of Representatives
Jefferson City