Texas House Bill HB4201

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/25

Caption

Relating to the locations where a handgun license holder may carry a handgun.

Impact

The bill would notably alter provisions relating to the prohibited carrying of handguns in various public places, effectively expanding the rights of licensed individuals while also addressing school safety protocols. Specifically, it aims to ensure that governmental entities cannot broadly prohibit licensed handgun holders from entering their premises, barring specific exceptions. The changes are meant to clarify the authorized circumstances under which a person may possess a handgun, which proponents argue improves public safety by allowing trained individuals to act as security in schools and other critical areas.

Summary

House Bill 4201 aims to update and amend existing Texas laws concerning the areas where handgun license holders are permitted to carry firearms. It introduces several modifications to the Education Code and the Penal Code, particularly regarding the conditions under which licensed individuals can carry handguns on the premises of government entities, educational institutions, and specifically addresses scenarios involving school safety. The bill outlines that school districts may authorize certain employees or contracted individuals to carry handguns under defined regulations to enhance school security.

Contention

Despite the intentions behind HB 4201, the bill has sparked considerable debate among stakeholders. Supporters argue that it enhances safety and security within educational environments by permitting responsible adults to carry firearms. However, opponents criticize the bill for potentially increasing the risk of firearms on school campuses, arguing that it may undermine efforts to create safe learning environments for students. Concerns have also been expressed about the implications for local government autonomy, as the bill restricts local entities from fully regulating handgun carry dynamics on their properties.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
  • Section: 0814

Government Code

• Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
  • Section: 209

• Chapter 552. Public Information
  • Section: New Section

Penal Code

• Chapter 30. Burglary And Criminal Trespass
  • Section: 06
  • Section: 07

• Chapter 46. Weapons
  • Section: 03
  • Section: 15
  • Section: New Section

Alcoholic Beverage Code

• Chapter 104. Regulation Of Retailers
  • Section: 06

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 552. State Hospitals
  • Section: New Section