Texas Lawmakers Are Debating Guns At Your Polling Station

There's been a lot of talk this year in regards to bills being introduced and voted on during the Texas legislative session. They range from declaring the official "State Steak" to more controversial bills and acts, like the THC ban.

One that hasn't received a lot of attention is House Bill 1794. This bill tackles the issue of concealed handguns and polling places.

Handguns And Polling Places In Texas

House Bill 1794 makes it possible for individuals to carry a concealed handgun to a polling location. The language of the bill says that a person could carry their handgun with them that they're licensed to carry on election day or during early voting.

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It's an interesting piece of legislation that has already passed through the House and has arrived at the Senate. According to the latest update on Legiscan, the bill has been referred to State Affairs.

If it passes, it would go into effect on September 1 of this year.

People Are Divided Over Handguns At Polling Places In Texas

There are, of course, plenty of people who have an opinion on this bill. The line drawn between supporters and opponents is pretty clear.

Supporters of the bill point to reports of voter intimidation over the past several years. They claim this bill is a way to support election officials and keep people safe. Some even say it will help reduce confusion over "gun-free zones".

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Opponents of the bill say that adding handguns to the already volatile atmosphere surrounding most elections is a recipe for disaster. They also claim that it will make voter intimidation easier.

As is the case right now with several pieces of legislation, we have to wait to see what will happen in the last weeks of the legislative session. It wraps up on June 2, 2025.