Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB821

Caption

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

Impact

The enactment of HB 821 will have significant implications for current state laws concerning the licensing process for handgun carry permits. The amendments may lead to a more streamlined application process, potentially increasing the number of licenses issued while ensuring that those who meet the established criteria are granted the ability to carry firearms legally. However, the revisions also eliminate certain disqualifications, which may raise concerns about public safety and the regulation of firearms in Texas. Critics might argue that loosening requirements could result in increased risks associated with firearm possession.

Summary

House Bill 821 seeks to amend the eligibility criteria for obtaining a handgun carry license in Texas. The bill outlines specific conditions under which individuals are eligible for a license, including residency requirements, age restrictions, and previous legal infractions. Notably, it revises the disqualifications related to felony and misdemeanor convictions, mental health status, and other prohibitive factors that could impact an individual's ability to procure a handgun license. This legislation aims to delineate clearer standards for both applicants and the Department of Public Safety overseeing the licensing process.

Sentiment

Sentiment regarding HB 821 appears to be mixed within the legislative and public discourse. Proponents advocate for the bill as a movement toward responsible gun ownership rights and a means to simplify legal processes for law-abiding citizens seeking to carry firearms. In contrast, opponents raise alarms over the potential consequences of relaxing eligibility criteria, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stringent standards to ensure community safety and responsible gun usage.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 821 involves the balance between individual rights to gun ownership versus the responsibility to protect public safety. Supporters assert that the bill empowers individuals and acknowledges their fundamental rights, while critics caution against the risks inherent in reducing the barriers for obtaining a handgun license. The lack of certain disqualifications, particularly concerning mental health and prior convictions, continues to fuel debate about how best to approach gun legislation in Texas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4663

Relating to the age at which a person is eligible for a license to carry a handgun.

TX HB76

Relating to reporting the loss or theft of a firearm; creating a criminal offense.

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.

TX HB408

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

TX SB2042

Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.

TX HB4526

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

TX HB3057

Relating to extreme risk protective orders; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB529

Relating to extreme risk protective orders; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB144

Relating to extreme risk protective orders; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB136

Relating to extreme risk protective orders; creating criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.