Texas House Bill HB3801

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the eligibility requirements for a license to carry a handgun.

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes in the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Government Code by establishing that a defendant may seek a license for carrying a handgun despite a non-conviction-related charge if the court deems it justified. This legislative change could lead to an increase in the number of licenses issued to individuals with pending allegations, significantly impacting public safety considerations at both community and state levels.

Summary

House Bill 3801 addresses the eligibility requirements for obtaining a license to carry a handgun in Texas. The bill allows individuals whose eligibility is affected by a pending criminal charge to petition the court for an order permitting them to hold a handgun license if they meet all other relevant criteria. This provision aims to clarify the process for individuals facing charges to renew or obtain a handgun license while their case is ongoing.

Conclusion

Overall, House Bill 3801 introduces a significant change to the handgun licensing process in Texas, reflecting ongoing tensions between regulatory control and personal rights. The outcomes of this bill could set a precedent for how states handle similar situations concerning firearm access rights during legal proceedings.

Contention

Supporters of HB 3801 argue that individuals should not lose their right to carry simply due to pending charges, advocating for an approach that respects due process. However, opponents express concerns about the potential risks to public safety, arguing that allowing access to handgun licenses despite pending charges could create dangerous situations. The discussions around this bill reflect a broader national conversation on gun rights and public safety measures.