relating to the recognition of a handgun license issued by another state.

Bill Text

  89R5686 JSC-F
 
  By: Isaac H.B. No. 1337
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to the recognition of a handgun license issued by another
  state.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  Section 411.173(b), Government Code, is amended
  to read as follows:
         (b)  A valid license to carry a handgun issued by any other
  state is recognized in this state.  The governor shall negotiate [an
  agreement] with any other state an agreement that provides for the
  reciprocal recognition [issuance] of a license to carry a handgun
  if the other state requires such an agreement before recognizing a
  license to carry a handgun issued by this state [under which a
  license issued by the other state is recognized in this state or
  shall issue a proclamation that a license issued by the other state
  is recognized in this state if the attorney general of the State of
  Texas determines that a background check of each applicant for a
  license issued by that state is initiated by state or local
  authorities or an agent of the state or local authorities before the
  license is issued.  For purposes of this subsection, "background
  check" means a search of the National Crime Information Center
  database and the Interstate Identification Index maintained by the
  Federal Bureau of Investigation].  The department shall publish on
  its Internet website and annually update a list of states in which a
  license to carry a handgun issued by this state is recognized.
         SECTION 2.  Sections 411.173(c) and (d), Government Code,
  are repealed.
         SECTION 3.  This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
  a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
  provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.  If this
  Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
  Act takes effect September 1, 2025.

Instructor Analysis

Overview

  • The bill aims to recognize handgun licenses issued by other states, ensuring consistency and simplifying the process for lawful concealed carry permit holders traveling between states.

Key Points

Safety and Training

  • Clear criteria must be outlined for what constitutes "equivalent standards" in other states.
  • Instructors teaching out-of-state residents must meet or exceed Texas' instructor certification requirements.

Potential Concerns

  • Ensuring that instructors remain informed about any changes in state laws to avoid potential legal liabilities.

Supporting Responsible Gun Ownership

Promoting Consistency and Streamlining Processes

  • Facilitating responsible concealed carry across state lines without compromising safety or public welfare.

Continuous Education

  • Instructors should continuously update their curricula to reflect any changes in state laws, ensuring students have the most current information needed for safe and lawful exercise of rights.

Constitutional Analysis

Overview

  • The bill appears to affirm the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms by recognizing handgun licenses issued by other states.

Key Points

Second Amendment Implications

  • Facilitating the exercise of Second Amendment rights for law-abiding citizens when traveling out of state.
  • Promoting national consistency in standards for concealed carry licensing.

Public Safety and Compliance

  • Maintaining strict adherence to Texas’ own high standards for concealed carry licensing, including thorough background checks and safety training.

Conclusion

  • Supporting the Second Amendment rights of individuals while upholding public safety and maintaining Texas’ high standards for responsible gun ownership.
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