Bill > SB354

This bill modifies Texas law regarding concealed handguns on college campuses by establishing a new process for campus firearm restrictions. Under the proposed changes, institutions of higher education can prohibit license holders from carrying handguns on campus, but only if a majority of the student government votes to propose the prohibition and a subsequent referendum election approves it by majority vote of students, staff, and faculty. The institution must hold this referendum within 60 days of the student government's proposal, with all students, staff, and faculty eligible to vote. The bill also provides legal protections for institutions that allow concealed handguns on campus, limiting their liability for damages caused by license holders' actions. Additionally, the bill removes previous language that allowed college presidents to independently establish handgun rules, instead giving the student body more direct input through the proposed referendum process. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to any cause of action that accrues on or after that date. The bill aims to balance campus safety considerations with individual rights to carry concealed weapons by providing a democratic process for determining firearm policies at higher education institutions.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB354