Relating to restrictions on the use of a stun gun; providing certain criminal penalties and defenses to prosecution.
Impact
The bill has significant implications for self-defense laws in Texas, as it explicitly legalizes the possession of stun guns for licensed individuals, promoting their use among security and law enforcement personnel. This change in legislation could lead to a broader acceptance and usage of stun guns as a less lethal alternative for self-defense compared to firearms. Moreover, the introduction of proficiency and training standards is anticipated to enhance overall safety and responsible usage practices among stun gun users.
Summary
House Bill 1164 introduces amendments to the Texas Penal Code regarding the use and regulation of stun guns. The bill defines a stun gun and establishes a licensing procedure for individuals seeking to carry a concealed stun gun. It also outlines specific defenses to prosecution for individuals who are peace officers or licensed security personnel when they possess a stun gun during the course of their duties. These definitions and provisions aim to clarify the legal status of stun guns in the state and ensure that those authorized to use such devices have proper training and accountability.
Contention
While supporters argue that HB1164 increases public safety by regulating stun guns and ensuring only trained individuals are permitted to carry them, there are concerns among community groups regarding the potential for misuse. Opponents caution that increasing access to stun guns may inadvertently lead to more instances of unnecessary force being used in confrontational situations. Furthermore, some stakeholders feel that the bill does not sufficiently address the potential risks associated with stun gun usage in public settings, calling for stricter controls or additional regulations.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to the carrying of weapons by community supervision and corrections department officers, juvenile probation officers, and certain retired law enforcement officers and to criminal liability for taking a weapon from certain of those officers.
Relating to the carrying of weapons by community supervision and corrections department officers, juvenile probation officers, and certain retired law enforcement officers and to criminal liability for taking a weapon from certain of those officers.
Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain criminal offenses involving the smuggling of persons or the operation of a stash house; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to the punishment for certain possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act; changing eligibility for and conditions of community supervision.
Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.
Relating to the rights of victims of sexual assault and to certain procedures and reimbursements occurring with respect to a sexual assault or other sex offense.
Relating to the requirement that certain medical facilities and physicians give patients a good faith estimate of the expected payment for facility-based health care services before the services are provided; providing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the requirement that certain medical facilities and physicians give patients a good faith estimate of the expected payment for facility-based health care services before the services are provided; providing an administrative penalty.