Bill > HB2161

This bill modifies Texas law to enhance reporting of individuals placed under emergency mental health detention to federal firearm background check systems. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Public Safety to collect and submit information about persons released from emergency detention to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which tracks individuals prohibited from purchasing firearms. The bill adds a new provision that identifies persons released from emergency detention as a category of "federal prohibited person information" and mandates that facilities submit detailed personal information about such individuals after their release. Additionally, the bill requires that individuals undergoing emergency detention be advised that they are prohibited from purchasing a firearm for 30 days following their release. The legislation aims to improve federal firearm restrictions for individuals who have been temporarily detained for mental health reasons, with safeguards to maintain the confidentiality of the submitted information. These changes will apply only to emergency detentions beginning on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2161