SB 501...... Off to the Governor!

The Texas Senate voted to concur with NRA-supported House amendments to SB 501 by Sen. Ken Armbrister (D-18) & Rep. Suzanna Hupp (R-54). SB 501 closes a loophole in the state criminal trespass law that cities and counties were using to ban concealed handgun licensees (CHLs) from public property. The bill heads to Governor Rick Perry (R) for his expected signature. The Texas Senate also gave final approval to three more NRA-backed bills: HB 284 by Rep. Dan Ellis (D-18) exempts possession of a handgun in a recreational vehicle from the unlawful carry provisions of the Penal Code. HB 1704 by Rep. Larry Taylor (R-24) allows new Texas residents to apply for a CHL earlier than currently provided by law and will also allow non-resident Texas CHLs to keep their license even after their home state passes a Right To Carry law. HB 3477 by Rep. Jack Stick (R-50) will facilitate more CHL reciprocal agreements between Texas and other states by transferring authority to negotiate such agreements from DPS to the Attorney General`s office. Thanks for all of your calls and emails in support of these important measures throughout the session; the Legislature will adjourn sine die on June 2!