Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour has signed two of the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) priority bills into law; SB 2426, the "Castle Doctrine" self-defense bill, and HB 1141, one bill containing two primary pro-gun and one pro-hunting provision for law-abiding gun owners and hunters in the state.
"I'd like to thank Governor Barbour for signing these bills and making them the law of the land in Mississippi," said Chris W. Cox, NRA's chief lobbyist. "Both are important pieces of legislation that will help preserve our fundamental right to self-defense as well as the gun rights and hunting heritage for Mississippians for generations to come."
SB 2426 states that if a criminal breaks into your home, your occupied vehicle or your place of business, you may presume he is there to do bodily harm and may therefore use any force necessary against him.
Mississippi courts have consistently recognized the "stand your ground" principle - both inside and outside the home - since the late 1800s. SB 2426 would codify such court precedent into law.
Furthermore, the “Castle Doctrine” law provides protection from criminal prosecution and civil litigation for those who defend themselves from criminal attack.
HB 1141 enables hunters to continue hunting on certain-sized land tracts annexed by a city or county, even if that locality bans the discharge of firearms within its limits; prohibits the seizure and confiscation of firearms by local officials in the unfortunate event of a future natural disaster in Mississippi; and permits employees to transport and store firearms in their locked, private vehicles while parked on their employer's property if the employer does not provide secure parking separate from the public.
"On behalf of all NRA members in Mississippi, I want to thank HB 1141’s author, Rep. Warner McBride (D-Courtland) and Sen. Charlie Ross (R-Brandon) for their efforts in guiding this measure from concept to law," concluded Cox. "I'd also like to thank Sen. Ross and Sen. Ralph Doxey (R-Holly Springs) for sponsoring the “Castle Doctrine” bill, as well as the leadership in the Mississippi House of Representatives for keeping both bills on track for passage."
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