Texas House Bill HB2769

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/13/25

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB2769 will amend the Penal Code, particularly regarding the sale and transfer of firearms. Specifically, it prohibits individuals younger than 21 from acquiring semiautomatic rifles capable of accepting detachable magazines when they exceed a caliber of .22. The implications of such changes are significant for the regulation of firearm sales and ownership, introducing stricter requirements aiming for heightened accountability during firearm transactions.

Summary

House Bill 2769 proposes significant changes to the regulation of semiautomatic rifles, specifically aiming to prohibit transfers of certain semiautomatic rifles to individuals under the age of 21 without special provisions. This bill introduces a criminal offense for violating this prohibition and stipulates increased penalties for offenders. The main intent behind the bill is to enhance public safety and prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals categorized as high-risk due to their age.

Contention

Discussion around HB2769 may highlight various points of contention, particularly regarding the balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety concerns. Supporters of the bill argue that stricter age requirements are necessary to prevent potential misuse of semiautomatic rifles among younger individuals, while opponents may view the legislation as an overreach that unjustly restricts lawful gun ownership. This debate may involve contrasting views on the rights of responsible gun owners versus the necessity of certain regulations aimed at mitigating gun violence.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 46. Weapons
  • Section: 06