The bill, H.B. No. 384, aims to prohibit the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to specific recipients, particularly individuals under the age of 21. It amends Sections 46.06(a), (c), and (d) of the Penal Code, introducing new legal language that makes it an offense to sell, rent, lease, or give a semiautomatic rifle capable of accepting a detachable magazine and with a caliber greater than .22 to anyone younger than 21 years of age. Additionally, it clarifies that the affirmative defense for transferring firearms to minors only applies if the transfer is authorized by a parent or legal guardian.

The bill also increases the penalties for certain offenses related to firearm transfers. Specifically, it establishes that selling a semiautomatic rifle to a person under 21 or making a false statement on a firearm transfer form while prohibited from possessing a firearm will be classified as a state jail felony. The changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.06 (Penal Code 46)