Proposes a constitutional amendment relating to firearms

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to protect the right to own and carry firearms for self-defense and to assist civil authorities, while explicitly allowing local governments to regulate these rights within their borders. The amendment mandates that any restrictions on gun ownership must meet a high legal standard known as strict scrutiny and prohibits the state from refusing to protect these rights. Under the proposed text, counties and cities like St. Louis and Kansas City could enact ordinances to issue permits, charge fees, and set penalties for violations, provided they do not exceed specific limits on fines and jail time. The measure also includes exemptions for law enforcement, judges, and certain security personnel, and it maintains existing prohibitions on firearm possession for convicted violent felons and individuals deemed mentally dangerous.