Texas House Bill HB1651

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a secured handgun; creating a criminal offense; providing penalties.

Impact

The passage of HB 1651 would adjust existing state laws significantly, particularly those governing the carrying of handguns in public spaces. Regulations will now provide clarity on what constitutes lawful carry for both concealed and unconcealed handguns. Additionally, the bill includes penalties for various violations, potentially impacting how law enforcement interacts with individuals carrying firearms openly or concealed. This could shift the dynamics of public service engagements and increase pressures on law enforcement regarding preemptive actions based on firearm visibility.

Summary

House Bill 1651 addresses the authority of individuals licensed to carry handguns in the state of Texas, explicitly allowing them to openly carry a secured handgun. This change represents a significant alteration in the state's approach to handgun laws, moving towards more permissive regulations regarding how firearms can be carried in public. The legislation stipulates that a licensed individual can carry a handgun that is secured, thus facilitating a blend of rights regarding firearm ownership and public safety considerations.

Contention

Notably, the bill may evoke concerns about public safety and gun violence, particularly in settings where unprotected handguns could create anxiety or risks. The legislative discussions likely include a range of opinions on balancing Second Amendment rights with community safety, especially in sensitive public spaces such as schools, sporting events, and businesses that serve alcohol. Critics may argue that this could lead to increased incidents of gun-related tensions in public, from both a public safety perspective and the implications for employees and patrons in businesses where firearms could be present.