BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 179

By: Perry

Homeland Security & Public Safety

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, a concealed handgun license applicant must demonstrate handgun proficiency with a minimum .32 caliber handgun to obtain the license. Interested parties note that handguns of such a caliber may be uncomfortable for those who regularly operate a lesser caliber handgun or are physically unable to comfortably handle a large caliber handgun. These parties assert that Texans should not be prevented from obtaining a concealed handgun license because of injuries, abilities, or preferences of caliber. S.B. 179 seeks to address this concern.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

S.B. 179 amends the Government Code to lower from .32 to .22 the minimum caliber of handgun with which an applicant seeking to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license must be able to demonstrate the degree of proficiency required for effective operation.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.