Bill > HB3436

This bill modifies the legal definition of a "child" in the Texas Penal Code for the purpose of the offense of making a firearm accessible to a child, changing the age threshold from under 17 years to under 18 years. Specifically, the bill amends Section 46.13(a)(1) to expand the definition of a child from a person younger than 17 years of age to a person younger than 18 years of age. The change in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is September 1, 2025, meaning that for any offenses committed before this date, the previous definition of a child (under 17 years) will continue to apply. This modification effectively increases the age range of minors protected under the statute regarding firearm accessibility, potentially providing additional legal safeguards for a broader group of younger individuals.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3436