Bill > SB353

This bill introduces new regulations for private firearm transfers in Texas, requiring most non-licensed individuals to conduct a national instant criminal background check (NICS) through a licensed firearms dealer before transferring a firearm to another person. The proposed law creates exceptions for transfers between licensed firearms dealers, transfers between family members related within the first degree, and transfers directly to licensed dealers. Under this bill, individuals who are not licensed firearms dealers must request a background check through a licensed dealer before selling or transferring a firearm, and the licensed dealer will verify the transferee's legal eligibility to possess a firearm using the federal background check system. The licensed dealer may charge a reasonable fee for conducting this check. Violating these requirements would constitute a Class A misdemeanor. The bill defines key terms such as "firearm" by referencing the Texas Penal Code and defines a "licensed firearms dealer" as someone licensed under federal law. The new regulations would take effect on September 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to prepare for the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB353