H.B. No. 1270 amends the Texas Penal Code to address the unlawful possession of firearms by individuals convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses. Specifically, it expands the definition of offenses that prohibit firearm possession to include not only those convicted of Class A misdemeanors involving family or household members but also those convicted of violent misdemeanors. A "violent misdemeanor" is defined in the bill as any misdemeanor that involves the use, attempted use, or threatened use of force against another person. The bill stipulates that individuals convicted of these offenses cannot possess a firearm until five years after their release from confinement or community supervision.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions of "family," "household," and "member of a household" by referencing Chapter 71 of the Family Code. 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. Offenses committed prior to this date will continue to be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.04 (Penal Code 46)