The firearm laws in Texas are among the most permissive in the country. In fact, the law presumes that a person who possesses a gun is doing so legally. Even with this idea in mind, there are still restrictions on where and how a person may possess a firearm in public or on some private property.
Understanding Texas’ possession, carry, and concealed carry regulations is vital to responsible gun ownership. Failing to follow these laws may lead to an arrest and criminal charges. In the most extreme examples, convictions may lead to jail sentences and court orders that terminate your right to own a firearm. The team at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski can provide more information about Texas’ gun laws and what to do if you are facing allegations of illegal firearm activity.
The Laws Concerning Who May Legally Possess a Firearm
The law in Texas creates the presumption that a person who is in possession of a gun has the legal right to do so. Still, there are limitations on this right depending on the person’s identity and the type of gun in question.
When the gun in question is a long gun, like a rifle or shotgun, people may openly carry these items in public spaces. However, be aware that it is a criminal offense to use that firearm to intimidate, threaten others, or otherwise cause alarm.
The rules concerning the possession of handguns in public are more restrictive. While Texas has recently abolished the requirement to obtain a license to conceal-carry in public spaces, weapon owners must still be 21 years of age or older. Additionally, Texas Penal Code § 46.02 says that people carrying in public must place the weapon in a proper holster.
Finally, some people are prohibited from owning a firearm under any circumstance. These people include:
- People with prior felony convictions
- Those who are the subject of a protective order
- Those with a federal firearm prohibition order
Violations of these restrictions can lead to severe penalties and a permanent end to the right of gun ownership.
Locations Where the Possession of Firearms is Illegal
The laws in Texas are very permissive when it comes to the possession and carry of firearms. However, this right is not absolute. State law places limits on the locations where a person can legally open carry or conceal carry a gun.
Prominent examples of locations where a person may never bring a firearm include:
- Voting locations
- Government offices
- Airports
- Bars and liquor stores
- Amusement parks
- Mental hospitals
In addition, many private property owners may make it clear that firearms are not welcome on their property. These restrictions apply regardless of the type of gun involved or even if the owner has a valid license to carry. An attorney at the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski can provide more information about criminal charges that may result from bringing firearms into restricted areas.
Knowing the Firearm Possession, Carry, and Concealed Carry Regulations in Texas is a Part of Responsible Gun Ownership
Being a responsible gun owner means following the state’s laws concerning possession and public carry. While the law presumes that you have the right to possess a gun, even a concealed handgun, there are limits to these rights. For example, a handgun must remain in a proper holster. In addition, there are places where you can never bring a firearm.
At the same time, certain people can never legally possess a gun. These include those with felony conviction and those who are the subject of a protective order. Contact the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski now. They are ready to explain Texas’ gun laws in greater detail and provide help if you are facing allegations of a supposed violation.