Texas Senate Bill SB599

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 1/25/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/1/23
• Voted on by Senate: 3/16/23
• Out of House Committee: 5/6/23
• Voted on by House: 5/17/23
• Governor Action: 6/18/23

Caption

Relating to the carrying or possession of a handgun by a district or county clerk and the issuance of a handgun license to a district or county clerk.

Impact

The passage of SB 599 signifies a shift in state firearms policy, directly impacting how local courts manage security within their facilities. With the new law, district clerks will be afforded the same rights as judicial officers to carry handguns, which supporters argue is crucial for their safety. While the law does not interfere with local judges' discretion in adopting their security policies, it further legitimizes armed presence within courthouses, which has garnered attention and prompted discussion about the implications for public safety in spaces typically associated with law and order.

Summary

Senate Bill 599 seeks to amend current Texas law by allowing district and county clerks to carry firearms within their courthouses, similar to the rights already granted to other judicial officers, such as judges and prosecutors. The bill aims to enhance the safety and security of clerks as they perform their duties, particularly given that they are often involved in the handling of sensitive transactions and are present in potentially volatile court environments. The legislation outlines the process for these clerks to obtain a license to carry handguns, effectively expanding the list of officials authorized to carry firearms in government buildings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 599 appears to be divided. Advocates, including various district clerks and representatives from gun rights organizations, have expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing a need for self-defense in their line of work. However, there are critics who raise concerns about the potential for increased firearms presence in courthouses, arguing that it could lead to an escalation of violence or unintended consequences in environments meant for the administration of justice. This divide suggests a complex landscape of opinions regarding the balance between safety and security measures.

Contention

Concerns were raised during discussions regarding the bill's impact on the gradual normalization of firearms in public view, particularly in sensitive settings such as courthouses. Opponents worried that while the bill seems targeted at protecting clerks, it may open the door for broader acceptance of guns in judicial environments, potentially undermining the peace and order these institutions are meant to uphold. Additionally, the discussion highlighted the broader implications of firearm legislation in Texas, including ongoing debates about personal rights versus community safety.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
  • Section: 1882
  • Section: 201
  • Section: 1882
  • Section: 201
  • Section: 1882
  • Section: 201
  • Section: 1882
  • Section: 201
  • Section: 1882
  • Section: 201
  • Section: New Section

Penal Code

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