Texas House Bill HB2665

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of a concealed handgun license as valid proof of personal identification.

Impact

If enacted, HB2665 would amend the Business & Commerce Code by adding a new chapter that recognizes concealed handgun licenses as an acceptable proof of identification. This change could significantly expand the contexts in which individuals can use their concealed handgun licenses, effectively promoting the use of such licenses over traditional forms of ID in social and commercial interactions. Moreover, it delineates instances where concealed handgun license holders have non-discriminatory rights to access services, thus bolstering the recognition and acceptance of their permits beyond merely gun-related scenarios.

Summary

House Bill 2665 relates to the use of a concealed handgun license as a valid form of personal identification. The legislation asserts that individuals holding this type of license cannot be denied access to goods, services, or facilities solely based on the presentation of their concealed handgun license, as long as it is not concerning specific transportation regulations or federal identification requirements. The bill aims to provide a measure of validity to concealed handgun licenses in contexts typically reserved for more conventional forms of identification, including driver's licenses.

Contention

The potential implications of HB2665 are noteworthy and may stir debate around the topic of gun control and state identification laws. Proponents of the bill may argue that it serves to protect the rights of licensed gun owners and affirms their status as responsible citizens. In contrast, critics might express concerns about the broader societal impacts of allowing gun permits to substitute for more commonly accepted forms of identification, possibly regarding issues of safety, security, and the implications on the verification process in sensitive settings, such as airports or government facilities.