Bill > HB4372

This bill modifies Texas Penal Code Section 46.06 regarding the unlawful transfer of weapons, expanding the scope from just handguns to all firearms and introducing more nuanced restrictions and exceptions for weapon transfers. The bill broadens the definition of illegal weapon transfers to include selling, renting, leasing, loaning, or giving firearms to individuals who intend to use them unlawfully, and specifically restricts transfers to individuals under 21 years old for certain types of firearms (those capable of accepting detachable magazines that use centerfire ammunition or have a caliber greater than .22). The legislation introduces several specific defenses to prosecution, such as temporary firearm loans for sporting activities, transfers by parents or grandparents under certain conditions, and transfers to individuals who have completed hunter education, are military members, or are peace officers. The bill also creates new offenses related to falsifying transfer documents and establishes varying levels of criminal penalties, ranging from Class A misdemeanors to state jail felonies depending on the specific circumstances of the weapon transfer. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, when the act takes effect, ensuring that prior conduct is not retroactively criminalized.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4372