Texas 2023 - 88th 2nd C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB6

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

If enacted, SB6 would amend existing gun control laws in the state, imposing stricter regulations on the transfer of semiautomatic rifles. The legislation seeks to fill gaps in the current statutes concerning who may receive these types of firearms, potentially affecting various scenarios including private sales and transfers. By establishing clear legal consequences for violations, the bill aims to reinforce compliance with firearm regulations among both sellers and recipients.

Summary

Senate Bill 6 (SB6) focuses on enhancing public safety by prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to specific individuals. The bill aims to create a legal framework for criminal offenses related to the unlawful transfer of these firearms, thereby attempting to prevent potential misuse of such weapons. This initiative is a response to growing concerns about gun violence and the need for more stringent controls over the distribution of firearms deemed to pose a high risk to society.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB6 appears to be divided largely along party lines. Proponents, including key lawmakers and gun safety advocates, have expressed strong support for the bill, arguing it is a necessary step towards preventing gun violence and ensuring community safety. Conversely, opponents of the bill, including some firearms rights groups, argue that such measures infringe on Second Amendment rights and that responsible gun owners should not be penalized due to the actions of a few.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the definition of 'certain recipients' and the implications of enacting those prohibitions on personal freedoms. Critics have raised concerns about the potential overreach of governmental power in enforcing restrictive measures on individuals' rights to own and transfer firearms. Additionally, there remain conflicting views regarding the effectiveness of such legislation in actually reducing gun-related incidents, as opponents cite a lack of evidence that similar laws have successfully curbed violence.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

  • Chapter 46. Weapons
    • Section: 06

Companion Bills

TX HB51

Similar Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX SB6

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB2744

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB129

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB565

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB2916

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB7

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB29

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB761

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of an assault weapon to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB1388

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of an assault weapon to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB2075

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms other than handguns to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.