SRC-EPT H.B. 284 78(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 284
78R7733 EMT-FBy: Ellis, Dan (Staples)
Criminal Justice
5/10/2003
Engrossed


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

Under current law, the offense of unlawfully carrying a weapon does not
apply if a person possesses  a handgun, illegal knife, or club on the
person's own premises.  However, there is confusion as to whether it is
legal to carry firearms or knives in a recreational vehicle, which can be
considered temporary living quarters, regardless of whether the use is
temporary or permanent.  H.B. 284  makes it lawful for a person to carry a
handgun, illegal knife, or club in that person's recreational vehicle.  

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to
a state officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 46.15, Penal Code, by adding Subsection (g), to
define "premises" for the purpose of Subsection (b) (2).  Defines
"recreational vehicle" in this subsection. 

SECTION 2.  Effective date:  September 1, 2003. 
                       Makes application of this Act prospective.