Gov. signs bill reducing concealed-carry rules, fees

JACKSON – Mississippians will not need a state-issued license to carry a concealed gun in a purse, briefcase or other fully enclosed satchel under a bill signed by Gov. Phil Bryant.

Bryant’s office said Friday that the governor had signed Senate Bill 2394, which takes effect July 1.

The bill reduces fees for people to receive and renew a concealed-carry license. The fee for a new license would drop to $80 from $100, and the renewal fee for people younger than 65 would drop to $40 from $50. For 65 and older, the renewal fee would drop to $20 from $25.

The bill also specifies that disabled veterans, people in the active-duty military, and current or honorably retired law enforcement officers don’t need a license to carry a concealed gun.

Supporters cast the bill as a matter of safety for women who want to carry a gun in a purse without having to get a license.

Bryant also signed Senate Bill 2619, which allows active duty military, veterans and honorably retired law enforcement officers to substitute their military service for the state-required eight-hour training course to obtain the enhanced carry endorsement. In Mississippi, permit holders that complete the training course and receive an endorsement can bring their handguns everywhere except for police stations, jails, courtrooms and federal property, regardless of gun free zone signs.

The bill, which takes effect immediately, allows Mississippians to legally possess commonly used rifle ammunition for hunting, target shooting and self-defense.