Issue Position: Defend the Second Amendment

Issue Position

We must remain vigilant in our efforts to oppose legislation and efforts that infringe upon law-abiding gun owners, sportsman, and hunters. Now, more than ever, Texas must stand strong in defense of our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. As a member of the NRA and a lifelong hunter, I take this responsibility seriously.

Included in the legislation that I co-authored during the 83rd Session was HB 1076. This bill would protect Texans' rights under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, protect Texas' state and local law enforcement officers from violating the U.S. Constitution, and prevent the federal government from targeting certain firearms and accessories with restrictions.

Texans have the constitutionally protected right to bear arms, and HB 1076 would send a strong message to the federal government that Texans will not stand idly by should an executive order be signed that violates their basic freedoms.

The bill would protect state and local law enforcement from having to enforce a law or executive order that was unconstitutional. Police officers already have plenty of challenges without being co-opted to enforce federal regulations of dubious legality and possibly violate their oath to uphold the law.

The bill would also protect the state from the federal government's attempt to make certain styles of rifles or higher capacity magazines illegal. Limiting the type of firearm that a citizen may own would limit that person's freedom and right to self-protection.

I also co-authored HB 47, which would reduce the classroom hours needed to obtain a concealed handgun license. The bill will streamline the application process and eliminate unnecessary obstacles to obtain a CHL.

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