What are the Gun Laws in Mississippi?
Mississippi is a gun-friendly state with a strong tradition of firearms ownership and use. However, the state also has laws in place to ensure public safety and regulate the possession and use of firearms. In this article, we will explore the gun laws in Mississippi, covering topics such as concealed carry, permits, background checks, and more.
Concealed Carry Laws
In Mississippi, concealed carry is legal for residents and non-residents alike. Anyone who is at least 21 years old and a resident of the state can apply for a concealed carry permit. To obtain a permit, applicants must submit a completed application, pay a fee, and undergo a background check. The permit is valid for five years and can be renewed.
Here are the requirements for concealed carry in Mississippi:
• Residency: Applicant must be a resident of Mississippi
• Age: Applicant must be at least 21 years old
• Background Check: Applicant must undergo a background check through the Mississippi State Bureau of Investigation (MSBI)
• Training: Applicant must complete a firearms training course approved by the MSBI
• Fees: Applicant must pay a fee, currently set at $61
Open Carry Laws
In Mississippi, open carry is also legal, but with some restrictions. Anyone who is 18 years or older can carry a firearm openly in public, as long as it is unloaded and carried in a visible manner. However, some areas may have specific regulations or restrictions, such as:
• School zones: Firearms are prohibited in school zones, except for law enforcement personnel
• Courtrooms: Firearms are prohibited in courtrooms, except for law enforcement personnel or with the permission of the presiding judge
• Prison grounds: Firearms are prohibited on prison grounds, except for law enforcement personnel or with the permission of the prison administration
Background Checks
Mississippi law requires a background check for all firearm purchases, including private sales and transfers. Background checks are conducted through the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The check will flag any disqualifying factors, such as felony convictions, mental health issues, or domestic violence convictions.
Permit-to-Purchase
Mississippi does not have a permit-to-purchase requirement, which means that anyone can purchase a firearm without first obtaining a permit. However, the buyer must still undergo a background check and comply with federal regulations.
Other Gun Laws
In addition to concealed carry and background checks, Mississippi has other gun laws that are worth noting:
• Prohibited Persons: Certain individuals are prohibited from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, individuals with mental health issues, and individuals subject to domestic violence restraining orders
• Mandatory Reporting: Hunters and outdoorsmen are required to report any hunting accidents or incidents involving a firearm to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
• Felon in Possession: It is illegal for anyone convicted of a felony to possess a firearm in Mississippi
Table: Gun Laws in Mississippi
| Law | Description | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Concealed Carry | Legal for residents and non-residents; permit required | Public Safety |
| Open Carry | Legal for residents and non-residents; restrictions apply | Public Safety |
| Background Checks | Required for all firearm purchases; conducted through NICS | Public Safety |
| Permit-to-Purchase | Not required; buyer must still undergo background check | Public Safety |
| Prohibited Persons | Certain individuals prohibited from possessing firearms | Public Safety |
| Mandatory Reporting | Hunters and outdoorsmen required to report accidents or incidents | Public Safety |
| Felon in Possession | Illegal for convicted felons to possess firearms | Public Safety |
Conclusion
Mississippi has a rich tradition of firearms ownership and use, and the state’s gun laws reflect this. From concealed carry to background checks, the laws in Mississippi are designed to balance individual rights with public safety concerns. By understanding the gun laws in Mississippi, residents and visitors can ensure that they are in compliance with state regulations and safe in their daily lives.
