University City Democrat opposes Second Amendment expansion legislation

(From Sen. Brian Williams, D-University City)

State Sen. Brian Williams, D-University City, will vote no on Senate Bill 588 and Senate Bill 663 when it is voted on by the Senate Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee.

(Note: Both bills were filed by Sen. Eric Burlison, R-Springfield)

Senate Bill 588 establishes the “Second Amendment Preservation Act.” This legislation declares that federal supremacy does not apply to federal laws that restrict or prohibit the manufacture, ownership and use of firearms, firearm accessories or ammunition within the state. The bill also creates an opportunity to punish law enforcement officers who choose to enforce federal gun laws. Senate Bill 663 abolishes gun-free zones.

“As a member of the Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety Committee, I strongly oppose both bills,” Sen. Williams said.

“Proponents of this legislation argue these bills will make our state safer, but I firmly believe the policies outlined in these proposals will not accomplish that goal. We must work together and find commonsense solutions to the gun violence epidemic that will work effectively in our state, preserve our Second Amendment rights and most importantly, protect the citizens of our state.”