Jefferson City - Senator Gary Nodler (R-Joplin) today voiced his support of the US Supreme Court ruling, announced today, that strikes down the city of Chicago's gun laws. Senator Nodler signed on to the amicus curiae, (friend of the court) brief filed in McDonald v. Chicago as a supporter of gun rights in all levels of government.

The case addressed the city of Chicago's gun laws, which were some of the most restrictive in the country. The city was sued on the grounds that these local regulations violate the Second Amendment. Nodler said this verdict by the court overturning Chicago's ban on handguns upholds gun rights throughout the country.

"I am pleased that the court ruled in favor of Second Amendment rights, solidifying that no state or municipality can take away a citizen's right to bear arms," Nodler said. "This is a fundamental right that should not be infringed upon by any governing body."

Two years ago, the Supreme Court struck down Washington, D.C.'s ban on handguns, but the ruling did not apply to cases outside of Washington D.C. McDonald v. Chicago sets precedent for laws throughout the nation.

In 2003, Sen. Nodler supported the Missouri Legislature's passage of a concealed and carry law, giving Missourians the ability to obtain a right-to-carry license and carry concealed handguns.

"In Missouri, I am proud of the work we have accomplished to protect Missourians' Second Amendment rights and ensure that citizens are able to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their homes," said Nodler. "When I signed on to support this brief in 2009, my intentions were to uphold this legacy of protecting and supporting the rights of gun owners throughout the country."

To hear audio of Nodler discussing the Supreme Court's ruling, click here.

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