The Texas legislature has introduced House Bill 865 (H.B. No. 865), a bill aimed at protecting the rights of Texans by providing immunity from civil liability for federal firearms licensees and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations involved in firearm hold agreements.
Key Provisions
Subchapter C: Liability Arising From Firearm Hold Agreements
The bill introduces new definitions, including: * "Firearm hold agreement": a private transaction between a federal firearms licensee or a congressionally chartered veterans service organization and an individual firearm owner. * "Federal firearms licensee": any person licensed under 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44.
Immunity from Liability
The bill grants immunity from civil liability for: * Federal firearms licensees operating lawfully in Texas for acts or omissions arising from a firearm hold agreement that result in personal injury or death. * Congressionally chartered veterans service organizations operating lawfully in Texas, but only if they comply with firearms storage requirements applicable to federal firearms licensees.
Exceptions
Immunity does not apply to: * Causes of action arising from unlawful conduct or gross negligence of the licensee or organization.
Analysis
House Bill 865 is a positive step towards protecting Texans' Second Amendment rights. By providing immunity from civil liability, this bill acknowledges the importance of firearm hold agreements and the role that federal firearms licensees and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations play in facilitating these transactions.
The bill's provisions will help to:
- Reduce the risk of frivolous lawsuits against individuals and organizations involved in firearm hold agreements.
- Encourage the growth of the shooting sports industry in Texas by providing a safe and stable environment for businesses and organizations to operate.
Conclusion
As Texans, we value our freedom and individual liberty. House Bill 865 is a testament to this commitment, as it seeks to protect our rights and promote the responsible ownership of firearms. We urge lawmakers to pass this bill into law, ensuring that Texas remains a leader in firearm rights and freedoms.
