House Bill No. 2993 amends the Texas Penal Code to allow county commissioners to carry handguns in certain locations, provided they are licensed to do so under Subchapter H, Chapter 411 of the Government Code. The bill reenacts and modifies Section 46.15(a) of the Penal Code, which outlines exceptions to the prohibitions on carrying handguns. Notably, it adds a new provision that specifically includes county commissioners among those authorized to carry a handgun, while also deleting the previous provision that allowed district or county clerks to carry a handgun.

The bill clarifies that the changes will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the law in effect at that time. This legislative change aims to enhance the rights of county commissioners regarding firearm possession while maintaining the existing framework for other authorized individuals.