BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 318

                                                                                                                                            By: Hupp

Law Enforcement

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Under current law, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) must disclose whether an individual holds a concealed handgun license to any person submitting a written request and required fee.

This system may enable potential criminals to ascertain if DPS licensed a potential victim to carry a handgun.  HB 318 removes the requirement for DPS to disclose to any person, other than state and local law enforcement agencies, whether an individual holds a concealed handgun license.

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

The bill amends §411.192(a) of the Government Code by removing language that requires the Department of Public Safety (DPS), upon written request and payment of a fee, to disclose to any person the full name of the individual licensed under this statute.

EFFECTIVE DATE

Immediately on passage or if the Act does not receive the necessary votes, the Act takes effect September 1, 2005.