Several Gun Laws Go into Effect in Texas

In Texas, a series of new firearm laws went into effect on September 1, 2019. These laws will loosen firearm restrictions, making it easier to possess guns.

The following are the firearm laws that are now effective as of this past Sunday:

• House Bill 302 – Homeowners and rental-property landlords are not allowed to prohibit residents from lawfully carrying, possessing, storing, or transporting a gun or ammunition in the property.
• House Bill 1143 – School districts are not allowed to prohibit licensed gun owners—whether a school employee or a parent—from keeping a gun or ammunition inside a locked vehicle on campus grounds, if it’s not in plain sight.
• House Bill 1177 – Residents cannot be charged with a firearm crime for possessing a handgun while being evacuated from a local or state disaster area.
• House Bill 1387 – School districts loosen limits on the amount of armed school marshals campuses can employ.
• House Bill 2363 – Some foster homes can store firearms and ammunition together in a safe and secure location for personal protection.
• Senate Bill 535 – Licensed handgun owners can legally carry their firearms in places of worship (e.g. churches, synagogues, mosques, etc.).

Texas is considered one of the most firearm-friendly states in the country. While you do not need a permit to carry a shotgun or rifle, you must obtain a permit for concealed and open carry of a handgun.

If you have been charged with a firearm crime in Fort Worth, contact The Clark Law Firm today at (817) 435-4970 and request a complimentary case evaluation.