Mississippi Gun Laws
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Over the past ten years, Mississippi’s gun laws have seen notable changes, reflecting the state’s commitment to safeguarding Second Amendment rights while addressing evolving perspectives on firearm ownership and public safety. From concealed carry to background checks, these developments aim to strike a balance between individual rights and community security. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Mississippi’s gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023:
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- 2013 — Enhanced Concealed Carry Law : Mississippi enacts legislation to simplify the process for obtaining a concealed carry permit, emphasizing responsible firearm ownership.
- 2014 — Enhanced Mental Health Reporting : Mississippi improves the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by prohibited individuals.
- 2015 — Background Checks for Private Sales : Legislation is introduced to require background checks for private firearm sales at gun shows, promoting responsible transfers and closing potential loopholes.
- 2016 — “Stand Your Ground” Law Enactment : Mississippi adopts a “Stand Your Ground” law, allowing individuals to use deadly force in self-defense without a duty to retreat under certain circumstances.
- 2017 — Enhanced Penalties for Gun Crimes : Legislation is introduced to enforce stricter penalties for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes, aiming to deter illegal firearm use.
- 2018 — Firearm Preemption Law : Mississippi strengthens state preemption laws to prevent local jurisdictions from enacting firearm regulations that exceed state laws.
- 2019 — Enhanced Background Checks for Concealed Carry : The state tightens the background check process for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on mental health history and criminal records.
- 2020 — Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms : Mississippi introduces regulations requiring the reporting of lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, aiming to prevent potential diversion to illegal markets.
- 2021 — Firearm Training Requirements for Concealed Carry : Proposed legislation aims to enhance firearm training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.
- 2022 — “Red Flag” Law Consideration : Mississippi explores the implementation of “red flag” laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals showing signs of danger.
- 2022 — Enhanced Background Checks for All Firearm Sales : Mississippi considers potential regulations to require background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions.
- 2023 — Firearm Storage Recommendations : Mississippi introduces guidelines promoting responsible firearm storage practices, particularly in households with minors, to prevent unauthorized access.
- 2023 — School Safety Legislation : Mississippi explores legislation to enhance school safety by permitting certain school staff to carry concealed firearms on school grounds, subject to proper training.
- 2023 — “Stand Your Ground” Law Review : Mississippi reviews its “Stand Your Ground” law to assess its impact on self-defense rights and community safety.
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Mississippi’s gun laws have evolved significantly over the past decade, reflecting the state’s dedication to responsible firearm ownership and community safety. From concealed carry regulations to discussions on “red flag” laws and the strengthening of self-defense rights, these changes underscore Mississippi’s proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to shape its laws, it remains vital for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that balance individual rights with the security of the community.
Mississippi’s gun laws are lenient, often resulting in high rates of firearm-related crimes. With 12 murders by firearms per 100,000 residents, Mississippi ranks third highest in the nation for this statistic. According to the Brady scorecard, which ranks states’ gun control laws, Mississippi scored a mere 6 out of 100.
In Mississippi, no permit is required to purchase handguns or long guns, and neither registration nor licensing is mandated for these firearms. However, carrying a handgun involves more regulations. A permit is not required to carry a rifle, but it can be disallowed in specified areas such as schools, places of worship, or government buildings.
Restrictions on firearm possession apply mainly to former convicts. Unless pardoned, a convicted felon cannot lawfully carry a gun. However, a former convict can possess a gun if granted a rehabilitation certificate by the court where they were sentenced. If rehabilitation can be proved following jail time, gun possession rights may be restored.
Carrying a concealed pistol in Mississippi involves specific regulations. It is legal for anyone over 18 to carry a concealed firearm in their home or place of business and during sporting events that require a firearm. In other instances, a license is required. The application process for a concealed carry permit includes a 120-day waiting period, and applicants must be at least 21 years old, live in Mississippi for a minimum of 12 months, possess a clean criminal background, and show no signs of mental instability. Applicants must submit fingerprints, a full-face photograph, and a fee of approximately $100. If granted, the license is valid for four years and does not authorize carrying a gun in schools, places of worship, athletic events, parades, or public parks.
