Mississippi Churches Can Now Have Armed Security Teams

Churches in Mississippi can now have armed security teams. This follows a new law that allows trained members to carry firearms for protection.
By Newsroom | Law, Mississippi |

The state of Mississippi has enacted legislation permitting churches to establish armed security teams, a move initiated in response to church shootings elsewhere. The Mississippi Church Protection Act, initially passed in 2016, has seen various interpretations and implementations, with recent developments allowing off-duty officers to utilize official vehicles while providing private security for houses of worship. This legal framework permits churches to appoint members for security roles, provided they meet specific criteria, including firearm permits and enhanced carry certifications.

Security Protocols and Training Requirements

Under the act, participation in a church security program requires members to possess a valid Mississippi Firearms Permit and complete an enhanced permit carry course. Furthermore, security team members are often drawn from law enforcement or military backgrounds, or must be officially recognized within church records as designated security personnel. Some recommendations for these teams include carrying communication devices like radios and flashlights, and equipping members with less-than-lethal defensive tools alongside their firearms.

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The law allows for varying degrees of visibility in security presence. Some churches opt for discreet security details, with members concealing their weapons. Others, like the First Baptist Church of Tupelo, feature uniformed and armed personnel, often accompanied by marked patrol vehicles stationed outside.

Legislative History and Broader Gun Carry Laws

The Mississippi Church Protection Act, identified as House Bill 786, was a legislative effort to enhance safety within religious institutions. Its passage involved a debate balancing religious principles with the right to self-defense. Beyond church security, earlier legislation in Mississippi also expanded gun-carry freedoms, including provisions for carrying firearms in holsters without a concealed weapons permit, building upon previous laws that allowed carrying guns in purses without such a permit. The legal framework for firearm possession and carry in Mississippi is overseen by the Commissioner of Public Safety, with licenses requiring periodic renewal and background checks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What new law allows Mississippi churches to have armed security?
The Mississippi Church Protection Act, passed in 2016 and recently updated, allows churches to create armed security teams. This is to help protect people attending services.
Q: Who can be on a church security team in Mississippi?
Members must have a valid Mississippi Firearms Permit and complete an enhanced permit carry course. Many are former law enforcement or military members.
Q: How do church security teams operate in Mississippi?
Some teams are visible with uniforms and marked cars, while others keep their weapons hidden. They are trained to use firearms and sometimes less-than-lethal tools for safety.
Q: Why are Mississippi churches adding armed security?
The law was passed in response to church shootings in other places. It aims to increase safety for people in religious buildings across the state.