Mississippi Issues Shelter-in-Place - Firearm & Ammunition Industry Still ‘Essential’

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves issued a statewide “Shelter-in-Place” order in an effort to further prevent the spread of COVID-19. Executive Order No. 1466, which will begin this Friday, April 3, 2020, at 5:00 PM and be in effect until Monday, April 20, 2020, at 8:00 AM. The order only allows “Essential Businesses” to continue operating.

Gov. Reeves’ order references his previous order, Executive Order No. 1463, which includes “firearm and ammunition manufacturers and retailers,” as well as “suppliers and distributors” as part of the list of “Essential Businesses.” Additionally, the “Essential Businesses” list references the Department of Homeland Security’s CISA guidance on essential workers. The updated guidance (as of March 28) includes “workers supporting the operation of firearm or ammunition product manufacturers, retailers, importers, distributors and shooting ranges.” This critically important language was incorporated in the recently updated CISA guidance at the request of NSSF^®. 
 
NSSF urges all members to comply with the requirements of the Executive Order, closely follow CDC guidelines, practice social distancing and take precautions to protect the health of their employees and customers.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as they become available.