The bill, H.B. No. 2356, amends Section 46.05(a) of the Texas Penal Code to enhance the regulation of certain devices related to handguns. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that criminalizes the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of devices designed to make a handgun capable of automatically firing more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. This addition is made alongside existing prohibitions on explosive weapons, machine guns, short-barrel firearms, and other dangerous items, while clarifying that these items must be registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record unless exempted.

The bill stipulates that the changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the previous law. This transitional provision allows for a clear distinction between past and future legal standards regarding the possession and use of these modified handgun devices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.05 (Penal Code 46)