Texas House Bill HB2949

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a license to carry a handgun for a person who is at increased risk of becoming a victim of violence.

Impact

The bill's provisions include new procedures for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to expedite the process of issuing handgun licenses to these at-risk individuals. It mandates that applicants who qualify for such designations must have their applications processed within a specified time frame, significantly shortening the wait time for those in precarious situations. Should the DPS fail to act on an application within the designated period, it would be deemed a denial of that application, which puts pressure on the department to act swiftly.

Summary

House Bill 2949 proposes amendments to the Government Code concerning the issuance of handgun licenses specifically for individuals deemed at an increased risk of becoming victims of violence. This legislation seeks to create a new category of licensees under Section 411.184, allowing those who are protected by restraining orders or other legal protections to obtain a handgun license more rapidly. The bill aims to enhance personal safety for vulnerable individuals who might feel threatened due to domestic situations or other circumstances that put them at risk.

Contention

Notably, the introduction of this bill may spark debate over the implications of expanding handgun access, particularly surrounding issues of gun violence and public safety. Proponents argue that it empowers vulnerable individuals to protect themselves, while critics may contend that it could lead to increased risk of guns falling into the hands of individuals who may not be trained or fit to carry firearms. Such tensions underscore the broader societal discussions about gun rights and the balance between individual safety and community safety.