Bill

HB 854

87(R) - 2021
House Criminal Jurisprudence
House Criminal Jurisprudence
Criminal Justice
Guns
Hand guns

Contact the Author

DeWayne Burns

Phone:

512-463-0538

Capitol Office:

E1.322

Email:

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Positive

Author(s)

DeWayne Burns

Bill Caption

Relating to the punishment for the offense of unlawfully carrying a handgun by a license holder.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

HB 854 would lower the category of offense for carrying a licensed handgun on the premises of a hospital, amusement park, or into a governmental entity meeting from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C misdemeanor punishable of a fine up to $200. These offenses would become Class A misdemeanors if the person received notice that entry into the premises was forbidden and subsequently failed to depart.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action supports HB 854 because it would advance individual liberty and limited government. Individuals licensed to carry handguns should not be subject to severe criminal penalties for exercising their right. HB 854 would reduce certain instances to misdemeanors punishable by fine only, thus protecting the liberty of licensed handgun owners.

Contact the Author

DeWayne Burns

Phone:

512-463-0538

Capitol Office:

E1.322

Email: