The bill amends Section 46.06 of the Texas Penal Code to prohibit the transfer of certain semiautomatic rifles to individuals under the age of 21, specifically those capable of accepting a detachable magazine and having a caliber greater than .22. It establishes that a person commits an offense if they sell, rent, lease, or give such a semiautomatic rifle to a person younger than 21, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include transfers to peace officers or individuals who have been honorably discharged from the armed forces, as well as temporary loans for specific lawful activities, such as hunting or use at a shooting range.

Additionally, the bill modifies the penalties associated with these offenses, classifying violations involving semiautomatic rifles as state jail felonies. The bill also clarifies that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring prior to this date will be governed by the previous law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.06 (Penal Code 46)