The bill, H.B. No. 479, introduces a new requirement for licensed firearms dealers in Texas to report certain sales or transfers of multiple rifles to law enforcement. Specifically, the bill mandates that if a dealer sells or transfers two or more rifles to the same individual (who is not a licensed dealer) on a single occasion or within a five-day period, they must report these transactions to the Department of Public Safety, as well as to the local police department or county sheriff, depending on where the sale occurred. This new provision is encapsulated in the newly added Chapter 205 of the Business & Commerce Code.

Additionally, the bill establishes a criminal offense for licensed firearms dealers who fail to comply with the reporting requirement, classifying such violations as a Class A misdemeanor. The Department of Public Safety is tasked with developing the reporting form by September 1, 2025, and the law will only apply to sales or transfers occurring on or after the effective date. The bill aims to enhance oversight of rifle sales and improve public safety measures related to firearms transactions.

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