Unless City Council otherwise directs staff, new signage such as the one posted above will be posted during open meetings to prevent licensed people from carrying handguns openly or in a concealed manner into those meetings.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2016, Texans with a handgun license will be allowed to carry handguns in plain view in a shoulder or belt holster, in accordance with House Bill 910.
Individuals who do not have a license, but are otherwise authorized to carry a handgun, may carry a handgun on the person’s private property or in a car. All guns are still prohibited from the following locations:- Polling places
- Government courts or offices utilized by courts (unless written authorization is provided by the court)
- Rooms where a properly noticed open meeting is held
- Correctional facilities (including municipal jails)
- Schools (unless written authorization is provided). Beginning Aug. 1, 2016, concealed handguns will be allowed at locations at certain colleges and universities.
- On the premises of certain business with alcohol permits or licenses
- Certain hospitals and nursing facilities
- Established places of worship (churches, synagogues, etc.)
- Anywhere while intoxicated
Prohibited weapons include:- Machine guns
- Shot-barrel firearms
- Firearm silencers
- Armor-piercing ammunition
- Zip guns
- Tire deflation devices
- Chemical dispensing devices
Residents should call 911 if they see a person violating HB 910 in the following ways:- The removal of the gun from a secured holster
- When a gun holder appears intoxicated
- When the individual is committing a crime
- When the individual appears to intend to cause harm and/or is acting in a reckless or suspicious manner
Residents can read the more information about the bill on the Texas Legislature website.