House Bill No. 481 proposes the addition of Section 46.056 to the Texas Penal Code, establishing a criminal offense for the unlawful possession or transfer of large-capacity magazines. A "large-capacity magazine" is defined as a detachable ammunition feeding device capable of accepting more than 10 rounds, with specific exceptions outlined, such as .22 caliber tube devices and permanently disabled magazines. Under this bill, individuals would commit an offense if they knowingly possess or transfer such magazines, with violations classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

The bill also includes defenses against prosecution for individuals engaged in official duties as peace officers or military personnel, as well as for those who lawfully possessed large-capacity magazines prior to the effective date of the law, which is set for September 1, 2025. Additionally, it clarifies that if the conduct constitutes an offense under other laws, individuals may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()