TX
Texas House Bill HB1862

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1862

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the criminal consequences of engaging in certain conduct with respect to a switchblade knife.

Impact

The changes introduced by HB 1862 reflect an effort to delineate classifications of different weapon types and the corresponding penalties for offenses related to them. Notably, the bill reduces the penalty for offenses involving switchblade knives from a felony to a Class A misdemeanor, allowing for a less severe legal interpretation. This revision may lead to a more lenient approach regarding individuals found in possession of switchblade knives, thus impacting law enforcement practices and judicial outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1862 pertains to the criminal consequences associated with engaging in certain conduct related to switchblade knives. This bill amends existing provisions in the Texas Penal Code regarding the possession, manufacture, transportation, and sale of various weapons including switchblade knives. By redefining these criminal statutes, the bill aims to clarify the legal framing of switchblade knives in the context of weapon regulation and law enforcement.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding its implications for public safety and the regulation of dangerous weapons. Advocates for the bill argue that it addresses concerns regarding overly harsh penalties for individuals possessing switchblade knives, particularly in instances where these items are collected as antiques or curio items. However, opponents express worries about the potential increase in the availability of such knives and the risks associated with reducing the legal penalties tied to their possession.

Notable_points

HB 1862 also establishes affirmative defenses for individuals whose actions involving switchblade knives are deemed incidental and does not constitute illegal behavior. The legislation's enactment is set to take effect on September 1, 2013, and only applies to offenses committed on or after this date, allowing previous conduct under former law to remain unaffected.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2705

Relating to the prohibition of short-barrel firearms.

TX HB2953

Relating to the prohibition of short-barrel firearms.

TX HB4165

Relating to the possession of a knife, knuckles, or a switchblade knife on the grounds or in the building of a public school; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB682

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of certain devices intended to modify firearms.

TX HB3266

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of certain devices intended to modify handguns.

TX HB113

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of certain devices intended to modify handguns.

TX HB2275

Relating to the unlawful carrying, acquisition, purchase, and transfer of certain weapons; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB761

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of an assault weapon to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB1388

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of an assault weapon to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB220

Relating to the offense of unlawful transfer of handguns and other firearms and to the duties of certain entities with respect to handgun licenses that are active, suspended, or revoked; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.