Mo. Senate backs bill lowering concealed carry age

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A bill lowering the age to get a concealed gun permit in Missouri is now just one step from the governor's desk.

The Senate voted 27-6 Wednesday to pass a bill lowering the concealed gun age to 21 -- the same age at which people can legally drink alcohol. The bill needs only a final House vote to go to Gov. Jay Nixon.

Missouri's current minimum age of 23 was set when lawmakers overrode a veto by then-Gov. Bob Holden to enact a concealed-carry law in 2003. The National Rifle Association says Missouri's age restriction is the highest among states that allow concealed gun permits.

This year's bill also would allow state officials and their staff to carry concealed guns in the Capitol if they have permits.

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Guns bill is HB294.

Online:

Legislature: http://www.moga.mo.gov