H.B. No. 2241 seeks to enhance firearm regulation in Texas, particularly targeting assault weapons, .50 caliber rifles, and unserialized firearms, which are identified as public health threats. The bill introduces Chapter 770 to the Health and Safety Code, defining key terms such as "assault weapon" and "unserialized firearm," while prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, and sale of these firearms, with exceptions for federally licensed manufacturers and law enforcement. It emphasizes the need to restrict access to firearms for individuals under 21 and aims to improve law enforcement's ability to trace firearms, thereby reinforcing public safety.
Additionally, the bill establishes a civil enforcement mechanism allowing individuals to bring civil actions against violators, with potential statutory damages awarded to successful claimants. It outlines specific defenses that cannot be used in these actions and preserves the state's sovereign immunity. The bill also includes provisions regarding the liability of defendants, the construction of firearms statutes, and the conditions under which attorney's fees may be recovered. It is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies only to causes of action that accrue on or after this date.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()