February 10, 2010

The Mississippi Senate passed a National Rifle Association (NRA) backed pro-gun bill on Wednesday, Feb. 10, that will allow concealed weapon permit holders to carry a firearm in parks, restaurants and unsecured public buildings. 

Senate Bill 2153, authored by Senator Merle Flowers (R-Olive Branch), was approved on a 48-3 vote.

 “Citizens should be able to exercise their Second Amendment right, and this bill will broaden the locations where they can do so,” said Flowers.  “Businesses will still have the ability to opt to restrict permit holders from entering their premises while armed, and counties and municipalities will also have the option for local parks.  This bill simply allows folks to protect themselves and their families.”

 Flowers, a lifetime NRA member, has long been a pro-gun advocate.  He co-authored the Castle Doctrine Law in 2006 that allows citizens to use deadly force if the feel their life is in danger.

“The NRA and our 30,000-plus members in Mississippi strongly support SB 2153 to bring state law into line with federal law allowing carry permit holders to protect themselves in parks, and to broaden the right to self-defense in other locations,” said Tara Mica, NRA’s Mississippi state liaison.