The bill, H.B. No. 259, proposes amendments to the Texas Penal Code regarding the possession and sale of certain firearms and related items. Specifically, it removes the prohibition on short-barrel firearms from the list of items that a person commits an offense for possessing, manufacturing, transporting, repairing, or selling. The bill also introduces an affirmative defense for individuals whose conduct related to these items is incidental to dealing with them as antiques or curios. Additionally, it repeals the definition of "short-barrel firearm" from Section 46.01(10) of the Penal Code.

The changes made by this bill will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses that occurred prior to this date will continue to be governed by the previous law. This legislative change reflects a significant shift in the regulation of short-barrel firearms in Texas, potentially easing restrictions for individuals dealing with such items.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.05, Penal Code 46.01 (Penal Code 46)