TX
Texas House Bill HB2095

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2095

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of reckless discharge of a firearm in certain municipalities and counties.

Impact

The enactment of HB2095 would primarily affect local governments' capability to regulate firearm discharges. While the bill allows municipalities and counties to adopt regulations prohibiting firearm discharge, it sets clear delineations regarding the enforcement of such laws in larger populations. This could lead to more consistent enforcement patterns within metropolitan areas while potentially sparking discussions about the adequacy of local laws concerning firearm safety amidst increasing urbanization.

Summary

House Bill 2095 seeks to amend the Penal Code's provisions regarding the criminal offense of reckless discharge of a firearm within specific municipalities and counties in Texas. The bill defines an offense as occurring when a person recklessly discharges a firearm inside municipalities with a population of 100,000 or more and in counties with a population of 500,000 or more. This legislative change intends to provide a clear framework for the enforcement of laws concerning firearm behavior in densely populated areas.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding HB2095 may arise from concerns regarding public safety, individual rights, and local governance. Proponents might argue that the bill enhances public safety by establishing stricter guidelines for firearm use in populous areas. Conversely, opponents could express worry that it constrains local jurisdictions' rights to tailor regulations according to specific community needs, potentially undermining local autonomy to address unique firearms-related safety concerns.

Implementation

The bill specifies that it will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that pre-existing offenses are evaluated under the laws in effect at that time. This temporal distinction is essential for clarity in legal proceedings and maintaining fair treatment of individuals charged with offenses committed before the new legislation takes effect.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

  • Chapter 42. Disorderly Conduct And Related Offenses
    • Section: 12

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1138

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of reckless discharge of a firearm in certain municipalities and counties.

TX HB3996

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB1274

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB7

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB5

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB73

Relating to regulating certain firearm transfers, possession of certain firearms, and protective orders prohibiting possession of a firearm; creating criminal offenses; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB244

Relating to limiting the locations where a person may carry a firearm other than a handgun in certain counties; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4124

Relating to the prosecution of the offenses of terroristic threat and unlawful possession of a firearm; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1442

Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal conduct involving a reckless driving exhibition or racing on a highway and to the forfeiture of contraband as a result of a reckless driving exhibition.

TX HB1399

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of making a firearm accessible to a child; increasing a criminal penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.