Bill > HB2993

This bill amends the Texas Penal Code to expand the list of individuals who are legally permitted to carry a handgun in places where firearms would otherwise be prohibited. Specifically, the bill adds county commissioners to the existing exceptions, allowing them to carry a handgun if they are licensed to do so under Subchapter H, Chapter 411 of the Government Code. This means that county commissioners will now join other public officials like judicial officers, prosecutors, probation officers, and emergency services personnel who are already exempt from certain firearm restrictions. The bill clarifies that this change only applies to offenses committed on or after its effective date, which is September 1, 2025. The modification is part of a broader set of exceptions to Texas Penal Code Sections 46.02 and 46.03, which generally restrict the carrying of weapons in certain locations, by providing specific exemptions for various categories of public officials and law enforcement personnel who are licensed to carry a handgun.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2993