Texas legislators are once again leading the charge to protect and expand Second Amendment rights, passing several pro-gun bills this session aimed at limiting federal overreach, affirming gun ownership, and defending against unconstitutional gun control tactics like red flag laws and gun buybacks.
The bills—now awaiting Governor Greg Abbott’s signature—send a clear message: Texas stands firm on the right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms, without interference from politically motivated fearmongering or federal strings.
No Red Flag Laws, No Exceptions
At the center of this legislative wave is Senate Bill 1362, which slams the door on red flag-style protective orders in civil cases. Unlike states that have empowered judges to strip gun rights with minimal evidence and no due process, Texas lawmakers are drawing a constitutional line in the sand.
SB 1362 makes it a felony for any public official in Texas to enforce civil “extreme risk protection orders,” whether they come from out-of-state or federal courts. It also prohibits the use of federal money to implement red flag laws—reasserting Texas’ sovereignty and commitment to due process.
While gun control advocates claim these orders prevent harm, pro-gun Texans recognize the danger in disarming citizens based on accusations or vague standards. False claims, rogue judges, and politically driven abuse of red flag laws are not hypotheticals—they’re real risks.
Short-Barrel Firearms Legalized at the State Level
Another major win comes with Senate Bill 1596, which removes state-level penalties for owning short-barrel rifles and shotguns. While federal law still requires registration through the NFA, [for now] Texas will no longer criminalize ownership of these firearms at the state level—especially important after the ATF’s recent reclassification of pistols with stabilizing braces.
Texans shouldn’t face jail time for owning a perfectly safe and common firearm just because a federal agency arbitrarily changed the rules. This bill pushes back against that nonsense.
Gun Buybacks Banned Statewide
Senate Bill 3053 bans taxpayer-funded gun buyback programs—schemes that critics rightly call “security theater.” The law prevents cities and counties from using public money to purchase firearms from civilians, which gun rights advocates say amounts to encouraging disarmament rather than addressing crime.
Most criminals aren’t turning in their guns for gift cards. These programs waste resources and spread the false message that fewer guns equals more safety. Texas is choosing real security over symbolism.
Easier Path to Handgun Licenses
Even with constitutional carry in place since 2021, Texans who want handgun licenses for travel and access to restricted locations got some practical relief:
- House Bill 668 extends the renewal window for handgun licenses.
- House Bill 1234 introduces an appeal process for applicants denied on medical grounds.
- Senate Bill 706 strengthens reciprocity with other states—ensuring Texans with licenses can carry across state lines where agreements exist.
While some argue licenses aren’t needed anymore, the option remains useful for those who carry across state lines or into certain restricted areas. These reforms make the process more accessible.
What Didn’t Pass? Carrying at Polling Places, Lowering License Age
Not every bill made it across the finish line. House Bill 1794, which would have allowed licensed concealed carry at polling locations, passed the House but stalled in the Senate. HB 2470, seeking to lower the handgun license age from 21 to 18, also failed—though constitutional carry already covers law-abiding adults 18 and up.
Meanwhile, gun control efforts fizzled. The much-hyped “raise the age” bills—revived after past high-profile shootings—went nowhere. That’s a sign lawmakers are tuning out the emotional pleas and sticking to principle.
Final Word
While media outlets continue to push the debunked claim that firearms are the leading cause of death among children—a claim inflated by lumping in gang-related teenage homicides—Texas is focused on protecting rights, not headlines.
These new bills affirm a simple truth: Texans don’t want disarmament disguised as public safety. They want their rights respected, their families defended, and their government kept in check.
Governor Abbott is expected to sign these bills into law.
Sources
- SB 1362 – Ban on Civil Red Flag Orders
- SB 1596 – Short-Barrel Firearms
- SB 3053 – Gun Buyback Ban
- HB 668 – License Renewal Extension
- HB 1794 – Polling Place Carry
- HB 2470 – Lowering License Age
Media Jumping on New Pediatric Study to Stump for More Gun Control
