Subscribe to receive our Floor Reports covering all the action on the Texas House and Senate floor!
No significant fiscal implication to the State.
Local Government Impact
There may be a cost to local governmental entities for training and rulemaking; however, the fiscal impact is not anticipated to be significant.
05/25/2015 update:
The bill removes commissioned law personnel from the list of allowed first responders in the Senate committee substitute.
Original analysis:
SB 1684 would amend code to allow first responders, such as firefighters and other emergency medical services personnel, to carry a concealed handgun while on duty. This would allow them to receive a designation on their CHL identifying them as a first responder. To receive the designation, first responders would be required to apply, pay a fee, and complete at least 40 hours in a course for tactical and deescalation techniques.
05/25/2015 update:
Minor changes were made to this bill that do not affect our vote recommendation.
Original recommendation:
This bill would affirm the principles of limited government and personal responsibility by removing the concealed carry restriction on first responders and allowing them to take responsibility for their own safety. First responders may be exposed to situations with potentially dangerous individuals that they are trying to help. There is a need for them to be able to protect themselves and other innocent bystanders if necessary. For these reasons we support SB 1684.
Read Bill & Check Bill Status