I did not at first pay much attention to the fact that Texas is about to see the passage of a law that will permit Texans to obtain and carry handguns, openly or concealed, without any type of special license—UNLESS THEY are prohibited from possessing a handgun by a state or federal law that applies specifically to them! But, I keep hearing and seeing more and more about this change each day as I watch television and listen to the radio!
Both chambers of the Texas Legislature (after reaching a compromise) have prior to this writing already passed House Bill 1927, and Governor Abbott has already stated that he will sign this bill into law after it reaches his desk. The “author” of this bill is Republican Matt Schaefer, and supposedly this is the strongest 2nd Amendment Legislation in Texas history, making Texas one of a number of states that have passed, or are in the process of passing, such legislation, aimed at making it easier for residents to protect themselves and their families. Keep in mind, however, that gun-control advocates warn that this might make it harder to ensure that people are trained before they carry guns in public!
So, what does this all mean? (1) Now, people need a state-issued license to carry handguns outside their homes and vehicles (background check, safety class, showing gun proficiency, paying a fee). The bill discontinues these and will allow Texans to take their handguns into public areas when the law takes effect on September 1. (2) Only those at least 21 years or older can “carry” without a license—provided they are legally in possession of a handgun. There are several reasons that people can be blocked (barred), and most are related to “records” for breaking laws or disobeying certain rules. (3) Just where can someone legally carry a handgun without a license? Well, everywhere, except a fairly long list of prohibited places and businesses that have posted “no carry” signs. You cannot carry a gun in public if you are intoxicated! (4) How must a person carry the handgun if there is no license? The answer is—“concealed” or “openly” as long as the weapon is in a holster! (5) Will it still be possible to get the “standard concealed carry” license? YES, the processing process of Texas will remain in place for individuals who want to do so, and the Texas License is “Recognized” by a number of other states, which can be helpful for travelers. (6) What other changes are in store as a result of this BILL? One is that some people can get rid of past “unlawful carry” convictions, but penalties for people who commit felonies and certain abuses (domestic in nature) and then are caught carrying illegally in public will increase! (7) This bill requires the Department of Public Safety to develop a FREE course on firearm safety and handling and to offer it online!
I can ascertain what I believe are good and bad points of this Bill and the new laws it will create, but I will probably just “stick with” my trusty ol’ “LONG GUN,” if and when I might need one!
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