Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB521

Caption

Relating to the establishment and use of a voluntary registry of individuals experiencing mental illness who waive the right to purchase or receive transfer of a firearm; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

The legislation aims to enhance public safety by preventing individuals who voluntarily acknowledge their mental health challenges from accessing firearms. It adds a layer of oversight by requiring licensed firearms dealers to check the registry before transferring firearms to potential buyers. This provision is targeted at reducing the risk of firearm-related incidents involving individuals who may be experiencing significant mental health challenges, thus affecting existing state laws regarding gun ownership and transfer.

Summary

House Bill 521 establishes a framework for a voluntary registry for individuals experiencing mental illness who choose to waive their right to purchase or receive firearms. The bill mandates the creation of a registry maintained by the Department of Public Safety, providing a mechanism for individuals to submit waivers indicating their decision to restrict their access to firearms. This registry will not contain information of individuals who revoke their waivers, giving them control over their firearm purchasing rights based on their mental health status.

Addendum

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for individuals who misuse the waiver or revocation process, establishing a criminal offense for knowingly submitting waivers for others without consent. This element is designed to protect individuals' rights and ensure that the registry is used appropriately and ethically.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB521 include concerns about personal privacy, potential stigma associated with mental illness, and the voluntary nature of participation in the registry. Critics argue that the bill may deter individuals from seeking mental health treatment for fear of losing their rights to bear arms, while supporters maintain that the bill represents a necessary step towards responsible gun ownership and public safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB906

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Do-Not-Sell Registry for firearms; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3087

Relating to prohibiting certain transfers, purchases, and possession of firearms; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB662

Relating to the regulation of certain firearm transfers; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB220

Relating to the offense of unlawful transfer of handguns and other firearms and to the duties of certain entities with respect to handgun licenses that are active, suspended, or revoked; creating a criminal offense.