Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB221

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of a firearm to a person listed in the terrorist screening database maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Impact

If enacted, SB221 would result in significant changes to state firearm regulation. Currently, Texas law restricts firearm transfers based on various criteria, including felony convictions and active protective orders. The addition of restrictions related to individuals in the terrorist screening database would expand the scope of existing laws. This may lead to an increase in background checks and scrutiny during the firearm purchasing process, with the goal of preventing firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a threat to society.

Summary

Senate Bill 221 seeks to amend the Texas Penal Code to include provisions that prohibit the transfer of firearms to individuals listed in the terrorist screening database maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This legislative effort is aimed at enhancing public safety by preventing potentially dangerous individuals from obtaining firearms, thereby closing a perceived loophole in existing gun control laws. The bill reflects ongoing concerns about national security and the importance of responsible gun ownership.

Conclusion

Ultimately, SB221 presents a complex intersection of gun control, civil liberties, and public safety. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will continue to debate the effectiveness and fairness of implementing such measures to regulate firearm transfers by incorporating federally-maintained security lists.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB221 have revealed some points of contention. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step in safeguarding communities from individuals who have been flagged as security risks. They emphasize the bill's role in promoting responsible gun ownership and protecting citizens from potential harm. On the other hand, opponents express concerns about the implications of using the terrorist screening database as a basis for firearm restrictions. They worry about the potential for inaccuracies within the database and how it may unjustly impact individuals who are wrongfully included, thereby infringing on their rights.

Companion Bills

TX HB1229

Identical Relating to prohibiting the transfer of a firearm to a person listed in the terrorist screening database maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3088

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms to certain recipients.

TX HB1331

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms to certain recipients.

TX HB3087

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

TX HB2075

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms other than handguns to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB781

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms other than handguns to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB902

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain firearm magazines to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3996

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1274

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB7

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB5

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.