Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant signed a bill allowing churches to create security programs.

The legislation is called the "Mississippi Church Protection Act," and it also makes it easier for residents in other settings to carry concealed weapons.

"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.

The legislation also allows Mississippi residents eligible to own a gun to carry a firearm in holsters without a permit, reported Reuters. 

Participants carrying firearms for church security programs must have safety training and meet permitting standards.

http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mississippi-guncontrol-idUSKCN0XC2MO