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. However, exceptions are made for transfers to peace officers or individuals who are currently serving or have been honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces. Additionally, temporary loans of such rifles are permitted under specific conditions, such as being in the presence of the transferor or at a designated shooting range.

The bill also modifies the penalties associated with violations of these provisions. Offenses related to the unlawful transfer of firearms are classified as Class A misdemeanors, with certain violations, such as transferring a semiautomatic rifle to a minor or making false statements during firearm transactions, 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)