Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4021

Caption

Relating to certain locations at which a person is prohibited from carrying a weapon.

Impact

The impact of HB 4021 on state laws revolves around reinforcing weapon restrictions in sensitive areas. By clarifying and possibly extending the list of restricted locations, the bill targets environments that require heightened security measures. Proponents may argue that this is essential for protecting vulnerable populations such as students at schools or citizens participating in the democratic process by voting. On the other hand, there may also be concerns regarding the rights of individuals who possess firearms legally and the implications of such restrictions on their freedoms.

Summary

House Bill 4021 aims to amend Section 46.03(a) of the Penal Code, specifically pertaining to locations where individuals are prohibited from carrying weapons. This bill outlines various locations where carrying firearms, location-restricted knives, clubs, or other prohibited weapons would be considered an offense. Key locations specified include premises of educational institutions, polling places on election days, within proximity to government courts, at racetracks, secured areas of airports, and near designated execution sites during specific timeframes. The intent of this bill is to enhance public safety in areas where the presence of weapons could pose significant risks.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 4021 may involve notable contention between supporters advocating for stricter weapon regulations to promote safety and opponents who may argue that such laws could infringe on individual rights. The effectiveness of existing regulations versus the necessity for additional restrictions can spark debates among legislators and the public alike. Some may contend that the increased list of prohibited locations reflects an overreach in response to heightened fears of violence, while others may view it as a necessary precaution to combat potential threats in crowded or vulnerable settings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2960

Relating to the locations in which carrying certain weapons is prohibited and the applicability of a defense to prosecution for an offense relating to carrying a handgun in certain prohibited locations and associated notice requirements.

TX HB2279

Relating to the prosecution of certain offenses involving the carrying of weapons at certain locations.

TX SB2095

Relating to the prosecution of the offense involving the possession or carrying of certain weapons on the premises or property of certain locations.

TX HB192

Relating to the possession of a weapon in certain locations of a government court.

TX HB1007

Relating to prohibiting weapons in certain facilities or residences providing services to individuals with an intellectual disability or a developmental disability.

TX HB1760

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of possessing a weapon in certain prohibited places associated with schools or postsecondary educational institutions.

TX HB4726

Relating to prohibiting weapons in certain facilities providing services to individuals with mental illness or an intellectual disability and community centers providing community-based mental health or intellectual disability services.

TX HB111

Relating to prohibiting the possession of weapons on public property within 1000 feet of a school in Texas.

TX SB354

Relating to the carrying of concealed handguns by handgun license holders on the campus of a school district or open-enrollment charter school.

TX SB2348

Relating to required notice prohibiting firearms at certain businesses selling or serving alcoholic beverages and the prohibition on carrying certain weapons on those premises.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.