Letter to the Editor, Joplin Globe, April 16, 2025
The Missouri House approved legislation that would allow individuals with concealed carry permits to carry firearms on public transit buses, trains, vans and other spaces owned or operated by public transportation providers. It is now headed to the Senate and must be derailed for the overall safety and well-being of transit riders, operators and communities across the state.
While the legislation is intended to improve safety and protect Second Amendment rights, it’s crucial Missourians understand the unimaginable risks and why Citizens for Modern Transit, the Missouri Public Transit Association and all transit providers statewide adamantly oppose it.
Just like on airplanes and Amtrak – where guns are not allowed – public transit vehicles are enclosed, moving environments that pose imminent danger for passengers and operators should an accidental discharge or planned attack occur.
Safety is paramount. That’s why transit officials in both rural and urban areas are working diligently to implement and reinforce a wide range of safety and security measures. Allowing guns on transit simply is not the answer.
Public transit is vital to personal mobility and has a $4 billion economic impact on Missouri. These realities cannot be ignored. Missouri Senators must deny this legislation. Passage would be detrimental to Missouri’s residents and the economy.
Kimberly Cella, executive director of the Missouri Public Transit Association and Citizens for Modern Transit