Fairfax, VA -- The National Rifle Association (NRA) commends the Missouri Court of Appeals decision to dismiss St. Louis’ frivolous lawsuit against the lawful firearm industry. The opinion upholds a lower court’s ruling that the City of St. Louis’ claims are without merit -- firearm manufacturers and dealers are not liable for the criminal misuse of guns.
"This sound decision is a victory for gun owners and all who believe society must hold criminals accountable for their crimes," said NRA chief lobbyist Chris W. Cox. "These baseless lawsuits have done nothing but squander taxpayer’s money."There has never been any merit to these lawsuits -- in fact, the majority have been dismissed," Cox added. "Unfortunately, big-city mayors and money-hungry lawyers have played into the hands of gun-banners, who designed these suits to crush the American firearm industry under a weight of legal fees."
More than 30 states, including Missouri, have adopted common-sense laws to prevent cities and municipalities from filing further suits against the lawful firearm industry. The Court of Appeals found Missouri’s preemption law was a proper response to keep the courts from regulating from the bench.
"Lawsuits designed for the sole purpose of bankrupting a respectable industry have no place in our judicial system. NRA applauds this sensible ruling and will continue working with lawmakers to pass additional laws protecting firearm manufacturers from reckless lawsuits," concluded Cox.
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Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen`s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation`s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services.
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