Bill Text
| 89R5686 JSC-F | ||
| By: Schwertner | S.B. No. 706 | |
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| 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 [ |
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| reciprocal recognition [ |
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| if the other state requires such an agreement before recognizing a | ||
| license to carry a handgun issued by this state [ |
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| 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| are repealed.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. | ||
Legislative Background
The recognition of handgun licenses issued by other states is a topic of debate in the context of self-defense and firearm laws.
Current Status
In the United States, individual states have their own laws and regulations regarding handguns and concealed carry permits. The patchwork nature of these laws can create confusion and inconsistencies when it comes to recognizing handgun licenses from other states.
Recognizing Handgun Licenses
When a person holds a valid handgun license issued by one state but resides or travels in another state, they may face uncertainty about their legal status regarding self-defense and concealed carry. This recognition issue can have significant implications for public safety and individual rights.
Implications
Public Safety
The recognition of handgun licenses from other states is crucial to ensuring that individuals who are authorized to carry handguns in one state are not denied this right when they travel to or reside in another state.
Individual Rights
Recognizing handgun licenses issued by other states also protects the rights of law-abiding citizens who hold valid handgun permits, allowing them to exercise their Second Amendment rights without unnecessary restrictions.
