Don’t let freedom backfire
Beginning Sept. 1, most Texans will have the option to carry a handgun in public without going through training or having to obtain a permit under House Bill 1927, the Firearm Carry Act of 2021.
The House approved HB 1927, 82-62, and the Senate passed it with a 17-13 vote. The bill allows Texas residents, 21 and over, to carry handguns without obtaining a license as long as they are not prohibited from owning a gun by state or federal laws. Current law requires citizens to obtain a license which includes submitting fingerprints, completing a four to six-hour training course and passing a written and shooting proficiency test.
Amendments to the bill were included to nix previous concerns that kept the bill from going to the floor for a vote. One of the concerns would have barred officers from questioning people based only on their possession of a handgun.
Another amendment enhances the criminal penalties for felons and family violence offenders caught carrying. The Texas Department of Public Safety will also offer a free online gun-safety course.
The bill was sponsored by Senator Charles Schwertner, a Republican from Georgetown. “This is a simple restoration of Texans’ constitutional right under the Second Amendment, a right of the people to keep and bear arms,” said Schwertner. “I think it is a bill that is the strongest bill I’ve seen in my legislative career regarding the rights of our Second Amendment.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed HB 1927 into law
Without the proper education, many (including law enforcement) believe there is a risk not only to the safety of individuals, but also to the rights of citizens to lawfully possess a gun.
There are many regulations associated with constitutional carry. A normally law-abiding citizen who chooses to constitutionally carry but is ignorant to the law could face serious legal issues.
Did you know there are locations where open carry, even with a permit are prohibited? When do you have a right to lawfully discharge your firearm? What is the difference between permitless carry, open carry and concealed carry? What do you do when a law-enforcement officer approaches you and you have a firearm?
The second amendment is your right, knowing the laws before carrying a firearm is your responsibility. There are two local learning opportunities to familiarize yourself with HB 1927 before Sept. 1.
Open forum at Progressive Center
A free, public informational forum is being held at the Progressive Outreach Center, 915 West Virginia Street in Navasota, Monday, Aug. 30, at 6 p.m.
The open forum will be led by Grimes County Officials including: Grimes County District Attorney Andria Bender, Grimes County Sheriff Don Sowell and Navasota Police Chief Shawn Myatt. They will address the legalities of HB 1927 and there will be opportunities to ask questions concerning constitutional carry.
Texas Constitutional Carry Guide vs License to Carry
Do you understand the basics of Texas Constitutional Carry? Who can and cannot carry? What weapons are covered and how can you carry?
There will be a seminar to learn about the Texas Constitutional Carry Law at Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 State Highway 105, in Brenham, 77833 at 6 p.m.
The seminar will address the laws associated HB 1927. Even if you are a License to Carry holder, this is a great refresher course and a way to learn about the new laws. There is a $30 fee per person.