Texas House Bill HB1595

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/11/11
• Introduced: 2/21/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Report Pass: 4/7/11

Caption

Relating to the liability of a sport shooting range and the regulation of firearms, ammunition, firearm supplies, and sport shooting ranges.

Impact

This legislation will significantly impact state liability statutes by preemptively protecting sport shooting ranges and associated businesses from various civil claims. Local governments will no longer be able to impose additional regulations that could interfere with the operation of these facilities. As a consequence, this may enhance the operational framework for shooting ranges, promoting growth within this sector, but also raises questions about the potential limitations on local governance over public safety and community standards regarding firearms use.

Summary

House Bill 1595 is designed to amend existing liability laws regarding sport shooting ranges and the regulation of firearms and ammunition in Texas. It specifically limits the ability of governmental units to sue manufacturers and sellers of firearms and ammunition for damages associated with the lawful design, manufacture, and marketing of these products. The bill underlines the legal protections afforded to sport shooting ranges operating within certain boundaries while attempting to balance the interests of public safety and economic development within the shooting sports community.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1595 include concerns from advocates for stricter gun regulations who argue that the bill extends too much immunity to firearm-related activities, potentially endangering public safety. Critics fear that the loss of regulatory power may hinder communities' abilities to respond to local concerns about noise, safety, and the environmental impact of shooting ranges that operate within their jurisdiction. The discussions reflect a broader debate about local versus state control in the governance of firearms and associated businesses.