WOAH! You Can Now Be Arrested In Texas For Open Carry Of Firearms

Texas has a lengthy history with firearms, and as of 2024, the state's gun regulations have undergone several modifications. HB 1927, which went into effect in 2021, permits Texans to carry firearms without a license or authorization. Before this modification, carrying a firearm in public or hidden must be licensed in Texas.

Even with the open carry laws, you can now be arrested in Texas for open carry of firearms. Let's take a look at it...

WHO HAS PERMISSION TO CARRY A GUN IN TEXAS?

As of 2021, the Texas gun laws that control the possession and carrying of firearms have undergone significant changes. It is now permissible for eligible individuals to carry handguns in public without a license, however, the state still grants licenses to carry for those who desire more rights.

To carry a handgun without a license, a person must meet certain requirements, such as being at least 21 years old and not having any pending criminal convictions or orders of protection against them. While some people are legally prohibited from possessing or obtaining any firearms, rifles, and shotguns are two examples of long guns that are not particularly restricted.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN CARRY A GUN IN TEXAS...

Depending on whether you are carrying a pistol or a long gun, like a rifle or shotgun, Texas has different gun restrictions.

There is no legal requirement as to what kind of holster is required if you are carrying a pistol, but it is required by law to carry it in one. Before 2021, a handgun had to be carried openly in a belt or shoulder holster and required a license. The legislation has since changed, though, and the sole need is that the pistol be carried in a holster. A license is no longer necessary.

HOW CAN I BE ARRESTED IN TEXAS FOR OPEN CARRYING?

In short, a judge's decision essentially allows the police to detain you if someone reports that you are carrying a pistol in public. The "qualified immunity" granted to the police means that they can arrest you without facing any consequences, but it is quite likely that you will be freed without charges being brought against you. The police have the authority to hold you at gunpoint until you surrender your weapon and are taken into custody, so things may get much stranger.

I guess that if you keep your intimidation level low, no one will bother you. Just be aware that it is now legal for the police to arrest you for open carry, even if you've done nothing wrong.