With so many assumptions and untrue statements about the new law governing constitutional carry in Texas, which is already active in several other states, people are unsure where they stand. This is causing panic and miscommunication. However, below, you can find some important details related to constitutional carry.
No License Requirements
Under current Texas law, a citizen is required to get a license to carry a handgun. To obtain this permit, he or she must complete four to six hours of training, take a shooting proficiency test, and submit fingerprints and a background check. However, with the upcoming constitutional carry law (which takes effect on September 1st, 2021), this permit known as the license to carry won’t always be necessary to conceal or open carry in public. Although not always needed, Texas allows license to carry holders to carry in more locations with additional legal protections.
Required Background Checks
Although some regulations have been eliminated under constitutional carry, to carry a gun under the new law, individuals still need to meet other requirements. This includes being 21 years of age or older and not being prohibited under state or federal law from owning and possessing a firearm. The process to purchase a firearm in Texas hasn’t changed. Individuals must still undergo the same background checks.
What & Where You Cannot Carry
Under the constitutional carry law, you’re no longer required to obtain a license to carry to open or conceal carry in many public places. Before this law, only handguns required a license in most public places. Other firearms were and still are allowed to be openly carried in Texas without a permit, such as rifles and shotguns.
However, there are still regulations regarding where you can take a firearm. It’s your responsibility to know what public places are approved and which are prohibited. Carrying in prohibited areas could lead to fines, jail time, and other legal consequences. Some of the locations you cannot take a firearm into include:
• Jails
• Schools
• Courtrooms
• Hospitals
• Government buildings
• Sporting events
• Polling locations
• Businesses that earn 51 percent or more of their profits from alcohol sales
• Secure areas of airports
The Law & Gun Safety
Federal and state laws change regularly, and it’s up to gun owners, sellers, and buyers to understand these adjustments and act accordingly. Failing to stay up to date could lead to serious consequences, which is why you should enroll in a gun safety course online. These classes teach various things, from laws and regulations to accident prevention and shooting tips. You can receive proper training and learn how new regulations impact you, whether your firearm is for protection, hunting, or sport.
If you’re not sure about the applicable gun laws in your jurisdiction, don’t hesitate to call on the firearms education experts at Gun Safety Training Pros. We offer the highest-quality weapons training online, and we can answer all your questions about carrying your gun legally in Texas or any other state. If you’re looking for a premier firearms safety class, reach out to us today at [email protected].
