| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Positive |
Relating to the enforcement of certain federal laws regulating firearms, firearm accessories, and firearm ammunition within the State of Texas; creating a criminal offense.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
SB 513 would prohibit state and local governments from
enforcing any new federal law or regulation on firearms that does not exist
under state law. If a state agency or local government enforces such a federal
law, they would be barred from receiving state grant funds. Any citizen subject
to the jurisdiction of the state or a local government, if either is enforcing such
a federal law, would be able to file a complaint with the Attorney General, who
could then seek relief.
SB 513 would make it a Class A misdemeanor offense for a state or local official to knowingly enforce a new federal law or regulation on firearms that does not exist under state law.
Texas Action supports SB 513 because it would advance individual liberty and limited government. The right to own a firearm is a fundamental constitutional right. SB 513 would have the effect of limiting state and local enforcement of federal regulations that restrict firearm ownership beyond what is found in state law, thus protecting the freedom of Texans in exercising this right.