JEFFERSON CITY – Senators are calling the governor’s veto of a bill requiring strict training standards for school protection officers yet another sign of his lack of leadership in Jefferson City.  

“I am once again disappointed in the governor’s decision to veto common-sense legislation,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Tom Dempsey, R-St. Charles. “Senate Bill 656 was designed to increase Missourians’ personal safety. This governor continues to prove he is disengaged with the Legislature, is unwilling to offer any fresh ideas, and vetoes good public policy.”

Under existing law, local school boards may already allow any person who possesses a concealed carry permit to bring such firearm on school grounds.  This may include a teacher, administrator, parent or visitor.  Senate Bill 656 would have required local districts to send employees to training approved by the Missouri Department of Public Safety if they voted to initiate a voluntary school protection officer program.

“This measure would have left the choice for voluntary training at the local level,” said Sen. Will Kraus, R-Lee’s Summit. “It would have been a decision made between the local school board and individual staff members. Currently, school districts can allow staff with a concealed carry permit to carry a firearm on school property. This measure would have simply allowed for staff to undergo more extensive training. The bill was crafted by the Legislature to increase school security options. I am disappointed this governor, who was all but absent during the process, has chosen to veto a bill designed to protect our children.”

The Senate will convene for the annual veto session on Sept. 10, 2014. At that time, a decision whether to override the governor’s veto will be made. To learn more about these bills or to track their progress, visit www.senate.mo.gov.