PROP B: MAKING THE CASE FOR AND AGAINST; OPPONENTS USING TRICKS

To the editor:

Opponents of Proposition B are panicked. They're up to their usual tricks by trying to scare Missouri voters into thinking this sound, life-saving measure is going to bring violence and harm to our state.

Proposition B is a good proposal. It would establish one of the toughest right-to-carry laws in the country. It's a tough, safe and well-drafted proposal put together by the Legislature with the advice and consent of both the Missouri Deputy Sheriffs Association and the Missouri Sheriffs Association.

Right-to-carry laws do not pose a threat to law enforcement. In the 43 other states with some form of a right-to-carry law, there has never been an incident in which a permit holder has used a legally concealed firearm against a police officer. We're not concerned about decent citizens who are only trying to protect themselves and their families.

Furthermore, law-enforcement officers support right-to-carry because it complements our crimefighting efforts and promotes public safety. That's why law enforcement says Proposition B will work well for Missourians.

Opponents of self-protection say Missourians can't be trusted. They say our sheriffs can't do what law-enforcement officers in others states do: effectively screen out criminals. They say qualified Missourians can't be trusted to act responsibly with firearms, although citizens in 43 other states have proven to be overwhelmingly trustworthy. They say we can't be trusted to decide for ourselves to exercise the right of self-defense. They're basically saying government should decide for us.

As president of the Missouri Deputy Sheriffs Association, I believe Missouri needs Proposition B and that Missourians are just as trustworthy as the citizens in those other 43 states.

I would vote for Proposition B even if I had no intention of applying for a permit. My reason is simple. I believe Missouri voters deserve the right to choose for themselves this very important form of personal protection.

I urge all Missouri voters to vote yes for Proposition B on April 6.

MAJ. O.J. STONE, President

Missouri Deputy Sheriffs Association

Jefferson City