S.B. No. 1657 aims to enhance regulations surrounding the transfer of semiautomatic rifles in Texas. The bill amends Section 46.06 of the Penal Code, specifically addressing the sale or transfer of firearms to individuals under the age of 21. It prohibits the transfer of semiautomatic rifles capable of accepting detachable magazines and with a caliber greater than .22 to anyone younger than 21 years of age. The bill also introduces a new subsection (c-1), which outlines exceptions to this prohibition, allowing transfers to peace officers, honorably discharged military personnel, or temporary loans under specific conditions, such as being in the presence of the transferor or at a shooting range.

Additionally, the bill modifies the penalties associated with violations of these provisions. Offenses related to the unlawful transfer of firearms are generally classified as Class A misdemeanors, but violations of the new semiautomatic rifle provisions or certain other offenses are elevated to state jail felonies. The changes in law will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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