Missouri lawmaker proposes nullification of federal gun laws
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Missouri lawmaker proposes nullification of federal gun laws

Date: January 16, 2013
By: Elizabeth Hagedorn
State Capitol Bureau

Intro: 
The same day President Obama proposed his slate of gun control policies in response to the shootings in Newtown, Connecticut, one Missouri lawmaker introduced his plan to exempt the state from future gun restrictions.
RunTime:  0:50
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: Republican Senator Brian Munzlinger's bill would nullify any federal law restricting the possession of semiautomatic firearms, and would make it a felony for any law enforcement officer to enforce such a ban.

Munzlinger says he questions the legality of Obama's executive orders.

Actuality:  MUNZ2.WAV
Run Time:  00:14
Description: "I think its a sad day today because of the constitutional provisions, and what I feel that they're trampling on our constitution."

But St. Louis Democratic Representative Rory Ellinger points out that historically the courts have ruled against nullification.

Actuality:  ELL3.WAV
Run Time:  00:05
Description: "We are a nation of laws, and the Supreme Court is supreme."

A similiar bill has been filed in the Missouri House.

From the state Capitol, I'm Elizabeth Hagedorn, Newsradio 1120 KMOX.

Intro: 
The same day President Obama laid out his post-Newtown gun control policies, a Missouri lawmaker put forth a bill to nullify federal gun restrictions.
RunTime:  0:46
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: Republican Senator Brian Munzlinger's bill would make it a crime for any law enforcement officer to enforce a federal gun law more restrictive than law.

Munzlinger says he's encouraged by gun legislation put forth in other states.

Actuality:  MUNZ1.WAV
Run Time:  00:11
Description: "I think there are other states picking up on this issue too, and I think you'll see a groundswell of support for ideas like this."
 
St. Louis Democratic Representive Rory Ellinger says the legislation matters little because federal law still trumps state law.

Actuality:  ELL4.WAV
Run Time:  00:07
Description: "It's the law of the land, and we fought a civil war over that issue, and I don't think we're going to fight another one."

A similiar bill has been filed in the Missouri House.

From the state Capitol, I'm Elizabeth Hagedorn, Newsradio 1120 KMOX.