Relating to limiting the locations in which a license holder may openly carry a handgun; restricting an exception to a criminal offense.
Impact
The implementation of HB 291 would mean that individuals holding a license to carry a handgun in the specified municipalities would no longer be able to do so while openly carrying in shoulder or belt holsters. Previously existing exceptions for open carry in various public spaces would not apply in the affected municipalities, significantly altering the landscape of gun carry regulations and potentially reducing visibility of firearms in these urban settings. Furthermore, the effectiveness of this legislation rests upon its enforcement and adherence by license holders within these localities.
Summary
House Bill 291 seeks to amend the existing regulations regarding the open carry of handguns in Texas. The bill introduces a specific limitation on the locations where license holders are permitted to openly carry a handgun, particularly targeting municipalities with populations ranging from 1.2 million to 1.4 million. This legislative change is intended to enhance public safety by restricting open carry in densely populated urban areas, where concerns over gun-related incidents may be heightened due to the concentration of people.
Contention
Discussions around HB 291 may incite varied opinions among stakeholders. Supporters of the bill argue that limiting open carry in populous areas could lead to a reduction in gun violence and improve community safety. However, opponents criticize the bill as an infringement on Second Amendment rights and assert that it may not substantively prevent crime. The tension between public safety actions and rights to bear arms creates a contentious atmosphere around the bill, reflecting the broader national debate on gun regulations.
Relating to wrongful exclusion of handgun license holders from certain property owned by or leased to a governmental entity and to certain offenses relating to the carrying of handguns on that property.
Relating to the locations in which carrying certain weapons is prohibited and the applicability of a defense to prosecution for an offense relating to carrying a handgun in certain prohibited locations and associated notice requirements.
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.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.