Bill > SB357

This bill introduces new requirements for reporting lost or stolen firearms in Texas and provides liability protection for firearm owners. Specifically, the bill mandates that peace officers must report to the Department of Public Safety any lost or stolen firearm reports they receive from owners, including details such as the owner's name, firearm information, and the date the owner discovered the firearm was missing. The department is then required to forward these reports to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), a comprehensive database of criminal justice information. Additionally, the bill creates a legal provision that protects firearm owners from being held liable for harm caused by their lost or stolen firearm, provided they report the loss or theft to a law enforcement agency within 24 hours of becoming aware of the incident. This legislation aims to improve tracking of lost and stolen firearms while offering some legal protection to responsible gun owners who promptly report missing weapons. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to causes of action that occur on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB357