H.B. No. 5025 amends the Texas Penal Code to create a new criminal offense related to the carrying of certain weapons on the premises of public libraries. The bill introduces Subsection (a-1) to Section 46.03, stating that a person commits an offense if they carry a partially or wholly visible location-restricted knife, club, or any prohibited weapon listed in Section 46.05(a), as well as a handgun, regardless of whether it is holstered or carried under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411 of the Government Code.

This legislation aims to enhance safety in public libraries by prohibiting the visible carrying of specific weapons. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for public awareness and compliance with the updated regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Penal Code 46.03 (Penal Code 46)