Carrying a firearm just got a bit easier in Mississippi with the passing of Senate Bill 2394.
Previous to its passing, carrying a concealed firearm in a purse, briefcase or satchel involved receiving a concealed carry permit.
In order to receive such a permit, applicants have to submit to a background check and complete paper work.
While a concealed carry permit is still required if someone wants to carry a stun gun, pistol or revolver on their person in a concealed manner, this new bill will open up the option for someone to carry such a weapon in their purse or briefcase.
With so many reports of people being shot in public places that were once thought of as safe, having a form of personal protection on hand could be beneficial if something was to happen.
There are some things to keep in mind, however. In order to secure a concealed carry permit the owner has to show a level of mental competency, or basically that they have not been committed within a certain time frame and also not have a felony conviction.
Additionally, a safety course is offered and suggested, but it’s not required. Going through the course will provide an enhanced concealed carry permit, and a bit of training to those new to firearms.
I see two things wrong with this bill; it doesn’t require people to prove they are mentally capable, and there’s no way to ensure the person carrying the gun can operate it correctly.
To me, employing the requirement to take a firearms course would guarantee the person carrying the gun could protect themselves or others should a situation arise.
Also, requiring those intent on carrying a gun in a purse or briefcase to show mental competency would help deter a tragic event from occurring at a public place in Mississippi.
But then again, no law protects everyone 100 percent of the time.