Customers purchase popular "no weapon" signs

PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) - In less than 24 hours, a decision could be made regarding the controversial Open Carry law.

A judge temporarily blocked the law from going into effect, which makes it legal for people to openly carry a gun and other weapons without a permit.

Monday, there's a hearing to see if the injunction will stay in place or be lifted. But many South Mississippians are already getting "no weapons" signs printed before they find out the decision.

Lately, the constant buzz of printers could be heard at Cupit Signs in Pascagoula. Hundreds of warning signs are rolling out while the debate over the Open Carry Law heats up.

"We sent out a mass email last Friday just letting our customers know that we offer the no weapons signs to go in their store front windows. It has been amazing," said the store's owner, Norman Cupit.

The law would change the definition of a concealed weapon, allowing people to carry a gun in a visible holster without a permit.

There are exceptions, though. For example: It is still illegal to carry weapons on school property and some city and county facilities. Any private business or organizations can also prohibit guns by posting signs, and many are doing just that. Anyone in violation could be arrested for trespassing.

"Interestingly enough, lots of churches are wanting to post signs at their entrances, and municipal organization and county offices any given small business. Some of the bigger industries are getting several dozen at once to cover all their entry points," Cupit said.

Cupit admits that he doesn't plan to post any of his personally made signs in his shop.

"I am a huge Second Amendment proponent. So we won't be posting one here. It is a sign shop. We're not catching trouble. People walking in with weapons have never been an issue, and I don't think it is going to be an issue," he said.

But if the law takes effect, Cupit said he understands and agrees the signs are a must because some folks are very fearful and see the law as vague.

He said, "I have never sold this many signs at once. The main thing for a business owner is to clarify that we don't want weapons here."

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