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HB 255

The Second Amendment Preservation Act; create to provide that the Legislature preempts local firearms ordinances.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andy Boyd and 2 co-sponsors

Mississippi bill would prohibit local governments from enacting firearms ordinances stricter than state law, centralizing gun regulation authority at the state level.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 255

Legislative bill overview

HB 255 would establish state-level preemption over local firearms regulations in Mississippi, preventing cities and counties from enacting their own gun ordinances that are more restrictive than state law. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, without advancing further in the legislative session.

Why is this important

This type of legislation affects the balance of power between state and local governments on a highly polarized issue. It determines whether municipalities can establish local firearms policies (such as restrictions on open carry in parks or stricter background check requirements) or whether only state law governs these matters statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Local autonomy vs. state uniformity: Supporters argue uniform state law prevents a patchwork of regulations; opponents contend local governments should address their communities' specific public safety concerns
  • Second Amendment interpretation: Disagreement over whether preemption best protects constitutional rights or whether local restrictions represent legitimate public safety measures
  • Scope of preemption: Unclear whether preemption would apply to all firearms regulations or specific categories, and what happens to existing local ordinances

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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