Texas House Bill HB259

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of short-barrel firearms.

Impact

If enacted, HB 259 would significantly alter the legal framework governing firearms in Texas, particularly surrounding short-barrel firearms. By repealing the classification of short-barrel firearms and establishing stricter controls, the bill seeks to enhance law enforcement's ability to track and regulate these weapons. The bill also provides that any offenses committed prior to the bill's effective date would still be governed by prior law, allowing existing cases to proceed under the original regulations, which could impact ongoing legal proceedings related to firearm offenses.

Summary

House Bill 259 aims to prohibit the possession, manufacture, transportation, repair, and sale of short-barrel firearms in Texas. The legislation proposes amendments to existing provisions in the Penal Code, specifically targeting the regulation of firearms that do not meet specific registration criteria as outlined in federal law. The focus on short-barrel firearms reflects ongoing concerns regarding their use in criminal activities and the potential risks they pose to public safety.

Contention

There is significant discussion around the implications of HB 259, particularly from stakeholders on both sides of the gun control debate. Advocates of the bill argue that short-barrel firearms are often associated with criminal activity and pose a danger to communities. Conversely, opponents may view the bill as an infringement on the rights of responsible gun owners and question its effectiveness in curbing crime, pointing to the need for broader measures to address firearm misuse and the potential for unintended consequences in enforcement.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 46. Weapons
  • Section: 05
  • Section: 01