Texas House Bill HB1945

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the criminal consequences of engaging in certain conduct with respect to a firearm silencer.

Impact

The legislation aims to clarify and potentially ease the legal burdens placed upon individuals regarding firearm silencers. By amending the classification of silencers and their registration requirements, the bill could make it simpler for responsible gun owners to comply with laws surrounding these devices. As a result, law-abiding citizens might feel more secure in their rights regarding the use of firearm accessories, which could lead to a more open discussion regarding gun ownership and regulation within Texas.

Summary

House Bill 1945 addresses the legal implications surrounding firearms silencers, specifically altering the Penal Code concerning the possession, manufacture, transportation, repair, and sale of silencers. This bill amends Section 46.05 of the Penal Code, which outlines the offenses associated with certain weapons. Notably, it removes firearm silencers from the list of items that automatically constitute an offense without prior registration. This represents a significant shift in how Texas law treats silencers and may reflect broader trends regarding gun regulations in the state.

Contention

While the bill appears to be well-received by those advocating for Second Amendment rights, it may face resistance from those concerned about public safety implications. Removing silencer regulations from a strict oversight framework may lead to fears surrounding increased criminal use of such devices. Advocates for stricter firearm regulations might argue that this change could make tracking illegal activities more challenging and could potentially aid criminals seeking to muffle the sounds of gunfire.