1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I urge you to strongly oppose SB905 (Gregory), which seeks to arm and deputize a new class of “Missouri Rangers” in our schools. This bill is a dangerous escalation that will transform educational environments into armed camps, prioritizing a militarized response over the proven, holistic strategies needed to address school safety and youth violence. True safety is built through investment, not intimidation. Our schools are in desperate need of more counselors, social workers, nurses, and after-school programs—resources that address the root causes of conflict and provide support for students in crisis. This bill instead diverts attention and resources toward creating a paramilitary force with limited arrest powers, inviting tragic consequences and the criminalization of our youth, disproportionately impacting students of color and those with disabilities. The proposed physical fitness benchmarks and abbreviated training are utterly inadequate for the immense responsibility of armed intervention in sensitive school settings. It recklessly lowers standards, putting both students and staff at risk. In addition, mandating a concealed carry permit as an entry requirement ensures this program will attract individuals with a gun-centric worldview, fundamentally at odds with creating a nurturing educational climate. We must reject this fear-based, reactionary policy. Our children deserve schools that are centers of community and learning, not fortresses patrolled by armed volunteers. I urge you to vote NO on SB905 and to pursue legislation that funds mental health support, conflict resolution, and community building—the real pathways to safety and well-being for all Missouri students.