Concealed carry is a popular way for Texans to protect themselves and their families. However, there are certain places where concealed carry is not allowed, and it is important to know these restrictions to avoid facing legal consequences. In this article, we will discuss the places where you cannot conceal carry in Texas.
Where You Can't Conceal Carry in Texas
Before we dive into the details, it's important to define what concealed carry is and its legality in Texas. In Texas, concealed carry means carrying a handgun in a concealed manner on or about the person. In other words, a person with a concealed carry license can carry a handgun on their person, as long as it is not visible to the public.
Texas has a "shall-issue" policy for concealed carry licenses, meaning that the state must issue a license to a person who meets the qualifications set forth by law. To obtain a concealed carry license in Texas, a person must be at least 18 years old, pass a training course, and meet other requirements.
Schools and Educational Institutions
According to Texas Penal Code 46.03 and 46.035, it is illegal to carry a firearm on the premises of a school or educational institution, unless the person is a licensed peace officer or meets certain exceptions. An educational institution is defined as any public or private school, college, or university.
Exceptions to this rule include licensed security personnel, school marshals, or a person with written authorization from the school. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony charge.
Government Buildings and Courtrooms
It is also illegal to carry a firearm on the premises of government buildings and courtrooms, according to Texas Penal Code 46.03 and 46.035. A government building is defined as any building owned or leased by a government entity, including courthouses and city halls.
There are some exceptions for this rule, such as peace officers, military personnel, and individuals with written authorization from the government entity. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony charge.
Bars and Alcohol-Related Businesses
Texas Penal Code 46.035 prohibits carrying a firearm in any establishment that derives 51% or more of its income from the sale of alcohol, such as bars and nightclubs. Even if you are not drinking, it is illegal to carry a firearm in these establishments.
There are some exceptions to this rule, such as peace officers and individuals with written authorization from the establishment. Violating this law can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge.
Sporting Events and Amusement Parks
Sporting events and amusement parks are also off-limits for concealed carry. According to Texas Penal Code 46.035, it is illegal to carry a firearm on the premises of these establishments. Sporting events include any professional, college, or high school sporting event. Amusement parks include any park or carnival that is required to obtain a license from the Texas Department of Insurance.
Exceptions to this rule include peace officers and individuals with written authorization from the establishment. Violating this law can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge.
Airports and Other Transportation Services
Texas Penal Code 46.03 and 46.035 also prohibit carrying a firearm in any airport or other transportation service. This includes any place where luggage is checked, such as baggage claim areas, ticket counters, and boarding areas.
Exceptions to this rule include peace officers and individuals with written authorization from the transportation service. Violating this law can result in a third-degree felony charge.
Polling Places
Finally, according to Texas Penal Code 46.035, it is illegal to carry a firearm within 100 feet of a polling place on election day. This includes any building in which voting takes place or an adjacent driveway, sidewalk, or parking lot.
Exceptions to this rule include peace officers and individuals with written authorization from the election judge. Violating this law can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge.
Conclusion
Concealed carry is an important right for Texans, but it is important to know the places where concealed carry is not allowed. By understanding the restrictions on concealed carry, you can protect yourself from legal consequences and ensure that you are carrying responsibly.
