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 The legislation, called the "Mississippi Church Protection Act,"
also makes it easier for residents in other settings to carry
concealed weapons, drawing criticism from national gun control
advocates.
It was passed amid heightened concerns about church security after a
gunman last June killed nine black worshippers during a Bible study
session at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, an attack that
authorities say was racially motivated.
"Churches deserve protection from those who would harm worshippers,"
said Bryant, a Republican, in a Twitter post explaining his decision
to sign the measure into law.
In most states, churches could address security concerns with
similar programs without the need for a new law, according to Amy
Hunter, a spokeswoman for the National Rifle Association gun rights
lobbying group which supported the measure providing civil liability
immunity.
The legislation also allows Mississippi residents eligible to own a
gun to carry a firearm in holsters without a permit, she said,
expanding on a state law enacted last year allowing for similar
access in purses, bags and briefcases.
However, gun control proponents called the law dangerous.
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"Mississippi law enforcement, families and faith leaders all spoke
out against this reckless bill that will allow dangerous people to
carry hidden, loaded handguns in public without a permit," said
Shirley Hopkins Davis, a volunteer with the Mississippi chapter of
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, in a statement.
Participants carrying firearms for church security programs must
have safety training and meet permitting standards.
(Reporting by Letitia Stein; Editing by Alistair Bell)
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