The bill, H.B. No. 1923, proposes to eliminate the requirement for applicants and holders of a handgun carry license in Texas to submit fingerprints as part of the application process. Specifically, it amends several sections of the Government Code, including Section 411.0891(d), which now states that the fingerprint requirement does not apply to individuals described in Subsection (a)(6) who are applying for or hold a handgun license. Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for two complete sets of legible and classifiable fingerprints from Sections 411.174(a), 411.199(b), 411.1992(b), and 411.201(d), streamlining the application process for these individuals.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the process for conducting criminal history checks by allowing the department to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation directly for national criminal history checks, rather than sending a fingerprint card. It also repeals Section 411.175, which likely contained provisions related to the fingerprinting process. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to applicants who submit their applications after this date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 411.0891, Government Code 411.174, Government Code 411.176, Government Code 411.199, Government Code 1701.357, Government Code 411.201, Local Government Code 118.0217, Government Code 411.175 (Government Code 1701, Government Code 411, Local Government Code 118)