BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 263

By: Perry

Homeland Security & Public Safety

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interested parties suggest that certain caliber handguns used to demonstrate handgun proficiency for purposes of obtaining a handgun license may be uncomfortable for those who regularly operate a lesser caliber handgun or are physically unable to comfortably handle a larger caliber handgun. These parties assert that Texans should not be prevented from obtaining a handgun license because of injuries or preferences of caliber. S.B. 263 seeks to address this issue by revising handgun proficiency requirements for purposes of obtaining a handgun license.

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. 263 amends the Government Code to remove the minimum caliber of handgun with which an applicant seeking to obtain a handgun license must be able to demonstrate the degree of proficiency required for effective handgun operation.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2017.