Texas House Bill HB185

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to creating the criminal offense of failure to safely store a firearm.

Impact

If enacted, HB185 would introduce a Class B misdemeanor charge for individuals who store firearms improperly. This provision would apply to instances where firearms are accessible without appropriate security measures. The law is expected to enhance public safety by ensuring that firearms are only kept in a secure, locked environment, thereby potentially reducing incidents of accidental discharges or unauthorized usage.

Summary

House Bill 185 aims to create a new criminal offense in Texas concerning the failure to safely store firearms. The bill proposes that individuals must store any readily dischargeable firearm in a secure storage device that is locked. The definition of a secure storage device includes items such as gun safes, cabinets, or cases designed specifically for storing firearms. This legislation reflects growing concerns around gun safety and the responsibility of firearm owners to prevent unauthorized access, particularly by minors.

Contention

Notably, discussions around HB185 could generate contention among stakeholders concerned about gun rights. Proponents of gun safety laws may support the legislation for its intended public safety benefits, while opponents might argue that it infringes upon individual rights related to firearm ownership and storage. The balance between enforcing safety and respecting personal freedoms will be a key point of debate as the bill progresses through the legislative process.