MS HB1435

Amends Section 97-37-7 of the Mississippi Code to authorize bank guards, company guards, watchmen, and other non-sworn security personnel to carry weapons while performing duties upon obtaining a permit from the Department of Public Safety.

Establishes a $100 nonrefundable permit fee for initial application and requires fingerprinting and criminal history background checks; denies permits to anyone with prior felony convictions.

Sets permit renewal requirements every four years with a $50 renewal fee (waived for honorably retired law enforcement officers) and a $15 late fee for applications filed after expiration.

Authorizes specific state and local officials including wildlife officers, prosecutors, judges, coroners, and fraud investigators to carry weapons while performing official duties after completing required weapons training.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.