Bill > HB695

This bill creates a new offense of unlawful possession of a firearm by a minor in Missouri, which makes it illegal for individuals under 18 years old to knowingly possess a handgun or handgun ammunition. The offense is classified as a class A misdemeanor, but includes several important exceptions: minors can legally possess or use a handgun during employment, while farming or ranching, during target practice or hunting, or for firearm safety instruction, provided they have prior written parental consent, transport the firearm unloaded and in a locked container, and meet other specific conditions. Additional exceptions include military members on duty, inheriting a handgun, and possessing a handgun in self-defense. The bill also addresses firearm confiscation, specifying that firearms illegally possessed by minors can be returned to their lawful owner after any necessary legal proceedings. The definition of a handgun is narrowly defined as a firearm with a short stock designed to be held and fired by one hand, excluding antique firearms. This legislation aims to regulate firearm possession by minors while providing specific circumstances where such possession might be legally permitted.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB695&year=2025&code=R