Bill > HB644

This bill adds a new section to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code that protects businesses from civil liability when they allow licensed concealed handgun carriers to enter their premises. Specifically, a business owner or manager cannot be sued solely for permitting a person with a valid license to carry a concealed handgun on their property. A "license holder" is defined as someone licensed to carry a handgun under Texas law (specifically Subchapter H, Chapter 411 of the Government Code). The bill further clarifies that the absence of explicit signage or verbal communication prohibiting firearms is considered sufficient permission for a license holder to enter with a concealed weapon. The new law will not apply to any legal causes of action that arose before its effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025. This legislation appears designed to provide additional legal protection for business owners who do not wish to actively prohibit licensed concealed carry on their premises.