Mike Toomey 83rd Legislative Update: Gun Control to Play Prominent Role in 83rd Session
The following is a digest of an article that originally appeared at the Permian Basin 360 website. Lara Keel is posting this summary as a public service for interested Texans, other state lobbyists, government officials and consultants, and all interested parties.
The December shootings at Sandy Creek Elementary in Connecticut have spawned a national conversation and debate about guns and appropriate restrictions of firearms. Texas lawmakers entering the 83rd session have been busy crafting legislation of their own. However, most of these bills seek to widen rather than restrict gun access.
At least 20 proposed bills stand waiting for approval. The question of allowing licensed gun owners to carry firearms on a college campus will perhaps be revisited. Both proponents and opponents of the idea are gearing up for a fight. There are also proposed bills that would allow Texas pubic school teachers to carry concealed weapons both in class and at school meetings.
Other bills concern themselves with the requirements for carrying weapons in Texas. Some Democrats are suggesting more strict regulations, background checks, and waiting periods for the purchase of guns. At least one Republican has announced that he plans to propose a bill making legal the open carrying of handguns in public places.
Keep your eyes on the news this session. There will be a lot of gun conversations going on.
Read the original story here.