TX
Texas Senate Bill SB195

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB195

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

Caption

Relating to a required waiting period for certain firearm transfers; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The implications of this bill would mean significant changes to how firearms are transferred within the state. It aims to prevent impulsive purchases of firearms by younger individuals, potentially reducing the risk of gun violence. The law would introduce new penalties for those who fail to comply with the waiting period rules, classifying such offenses as a Class A misdemeanor or a state jail felony, depending on the circumstances of the violation. Consequently, this could lead to a reevaluation of sales practices among firearm dealers and individuals alike.

Summary

SB195 introduces a required waiting period for certain firearm transfers in Texas, aiming to address public safety concerns related to gun ownership. Under the proposed law, a person selling a firearm to an individual between the ages of 18 and 21 must wait a minimum of 30 days after the sale before the transfer can take place. This bill specifically targets the sale of handguns and introduces new provisions to the existing Penal Code related to firearm possession and transfer laws.

Contention

While proponents of SB195 argue that the bill enhances firearm safety and may contribute to lowering gun violence, opponents express concerns regarding the effectiveness of waiting periods. Critics argue that such measures may infringe on the rights of responsible gun owners by imposing unnecessary restrictions on lawful sales. Additionally, the bill has sparked discussions about the broader implications for Second Amendment rights and how these regulations align with existing state laws surrounding firearms.

Future_consequences

If enacted, SB195 could set a precedent for further regulations on firearm ownership and sales in Texas. The implementation of waiting periods may encourage similar legislative efforts aimed at enhancing public safety while navigating the complex landscape of gun rights. The bill's reception among legislators and the public will likely influence future discussions on firearm policy in the state.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

  • Chapter 46. Weapons
    • Section: 06

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB298

Relating to a required waiting period for firearm sales; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3087

Relating to prohibiting certain transfers, purchases, and possession of firearms; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1522

Relating to a required waiting period for certain semiautomatic rifle sales; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB910

Relating to requiring a thirty day waiting period before a person less than 21 years of age may purchase a firearm; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB902

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of certain firearm magazines to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4364

Relating to prohibiting certain sales and purchases of firearms; creating criminal offenses; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB2075

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms other than handguns to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX HB781

Relating to prohibiting the transfer of firearms other than handguns to certain recipients; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.