H.B. No. 1128 amends Section 46.15 of the Penal Code to introduce a new provision that allows certain individuals to carry concealed handguns at polling places. Specifically, the bill states that the prohibition outlined in Section 46.03(a)(2) does not apply to individuals who are licensed to carry a handgun and are performing their duties as election judges or as early voting clerks serving in that capacity. This change aims to clarify the rights of election officials regarding firearm possession while they are on duty at polling locations.

The bill stipulates that the new law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any offenses that occurred prior to this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that individuals are held accountable under the regulations that were in place at the time of the offense.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.15 (Penal Code 46)
House Committee Report: Penal Code 46.15 (Penal Code 46)
Engrossed: Penal Code 46.15 (Penal Code 46)