The final version created stiffer penalties for illegal weapons carried by felons and those convicted of family violence offenses. The House and Senate sent HB 1927 to Abbott last month after reaching a compromise that addressed some concerns from law enforcement.
Senate Bill 19, which bars government contracts with entities that discriminate against the firearm industry.
Current state law requires residents 21 or older to complete the required training and criminal background check to obtain a license to carry. HB 1927 will allow anyone 21 years old or older who can legally possess a firearm in Texas to carry a handgun in public without a permit. "And thank God that Texas is leading the way for the country." "People want to be able to protect themselves," he said.
Wayne LaPierre, who leads the NRA, said safeguarding guns rights is essential in "an increasingly dangerous world."