Phil Bryant in State of Mississippi secondary Archives

On Civil Rights: States' rights should stop gay marriage in Mississippi

"Throughout history, states have had the authority to regulate marriage within their borders. Today, a federal court has usurped that right to self-governance and has mandated that states must comply with federal marriage standards--standards that are out of step with the wishes of many in the United States and that are certainly out of step with the majority of Mississippians."

On Gun Control: Concealed carry without permit; that's a fundamental right

"The right to keep and bear arms is fundamental to America and to Mississippi," Bryant said. "I have always been a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, and I am proud to sign these bills into law."

Senate Bill 2394 also:
• reduces the fee for concealed carry permits from $100 to $80;
• reduces permit renewal fees;
• and exempts active duty military from paying the concealed carry fee.

On Homeland Security: Keep C-130J aircraft production in Mississippi; we need them

"This is outstanding news for Keesler, the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the entire state of Mississippi," Bryant said. "Mississippi's military facilities are vital to the state's economy, and they are integral to the communities in which they are located. We have been working for several years to prevent the unjustified relocation of these aircraft, and today we see the results of our teamwork."

On Homeland Security: Tax credit for hiring unemployed veterans

"We owe the men and women who defend our freedom a debt of gratitude," Gov. Bryant said. "Veterans make excellent employees and bring a unique skill set to the table. This bill will serve those who have served us by helping connect more of these men and women with job opportunities."

The bill provides a five-year tax credit of either 10 percent of the hired veteran's salary or $2,000, whichever is lesser. It applies to military veterans who have served on active duty on or after 9/11 and who have been unemployed for at least six months, including Guard and Reserve who have served on active duty during the current war.