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

Bill Text

  89R5686 JSC-F
 
  By: Schwertner S.B. No. 706
 
 
 
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  are repealed.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

Introduction

Overview of the proposed bill and its potential impact on Texas.

Key Points

  1. Enhanced Reciprocity Increased number of law-abiding concealed carriers in Texas.
  2. Legal Consistency Standardized approach to recognizing handgun licenses across states.
  3. Safety and Training Ensuring comparable training, background checks, and psychological scrutiny.
  4. Enhancing Self-Defense Rights Facilitating lawful carry for Texans visiting other states or traveling abroad.
  5. Potential Concerns Varying standards of other states' licensing processes.
  6. Public Safety Balancing self-defense rights with public safety through high standards.

Conclusion

Balanced approach to enhancing self-defense while maintaining rigorous standards.

Constitutional Analysis

Introduction

Overview of the legal framework and constitutional considerations for the bill.

Key Points

  1. Second Amendment Rights Respect for individual gun ownership and self-defense.
  2. State Preemption Laws Ensuring compliance with Texas's state preemption laws.
  3. Federal Constitutional Rights Balancing federal mandates with state sovereignty.
  4. Equality Under the Law Avoiding discrimination based on race, religion, or other personal characteristics.

Conclusion

The bill must align with both federal and state constitutional principles to ensure legal validity.

Texan Analysis

Introduction

Overview of Texas values and how they relate to the proposed bill.

Key Points

  1. Respect for Rights Alignment with individual freedoms and self-reliance.
  2. Economic Implications Positive impact on tourism and visitor experience.
  3. Safety Concerns Balancing recognition of other states' licenses with public safety.
  4. State Sovereignty Maintaining rigorous standards for concealed carry permits within Texas.

Conclusion

The bill aligns with Texan values if it respects individual rights while upholding high safety standards.

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