ORDINANCE NO. 240223

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Sponsor:  Mayor Quinton Lucas and Councilmember Crispin Rea

Amending Chapter 50, Code of Ordinances, by amending section 50-262 to increase the penalty for the unlawful use of a firearm.

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WHEREAS, incidents involving the unlawful use of firearms pose a significant threat to public safety, resulting in injury, loss of life, and fear within the community; and

WHEREAS, existing penalties for the unlawful use of firearms may not effectively deter such behavior or adequately reflect the seriousness of the offense; and

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of local government to take measures to enhance public safety and prevent criminal activity; and

WHEREAS, increasing the penalty for the unlawful use of firearms can serve as a deterrent and promote a safer environment for residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, the imposition of stricter penalties aligns with Kansas City’s commitment to combating gun violence and ensuring the protection of its citizens, and reinforces the message that unlawful firearm use will not be tolerated within the City; and

WHEREAS, stricter penalties can empower law enforcement agencies and the judicial system in their efforts to address and mitigate the harmful effects of firearm-related crimes; and

WHEREAS, Section 21.750 of the Missouri Revised Statutes permits political subdivisions to pass any ordinance that conforms exactly with any of the provisions of sections 571.010 to 571.070.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

Sec. 50-262. - Same-Penalty when firearm involved in violation.

Any person violating any provision of section 50-261, except for subdivisions (6) and (7) of subsection (a) of such section, where the dangerous or deadly weapon involved in such violation is a firearm shall be punished by imprisonment not to exceed 365 days or by a fine of not less than $250.00 nor more than $1,000.00 or by both such imprisonment and fine.

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Approved as to form:

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Alan Holtkamp

Senior Associate City Attorney