Video: Reviewing the Texas Firearm Storage Laws

Reviewing the Texas Firearm Storage Laws Transcript

Hi. I’m Emily Taylor, Independent Program Attorney for Texas LawShield.

Let’s talk about the at-home storage of your handgun. It’s always important to implement good storage practices for the safety of those around you and to prevent theft. But failing to practice safe firearm storage becomes criminal when it comes to children younger than 17 years of age.

Texas Penal Code Section 46.13 makes it a crime if a child younger than 17 gains access to a readily dischargeable firearm because a person with criminal negligence (1) failed to secure the firearm or (2) left the firearm in a place which the person knew or should have known the child would gain access. This crime is punishable as a Class C misdemeanor but gets bumped up to a Class A misdemeanor if the child discharges the firearm, causing death or serious bodily injury to the child or to another person.

So, what does this mean for you if you have young children in your home? When the firearm isn’t in your possession or under your control, you need to be sure that a child in your household cannot gain access. Putting your loaded gun into your nightstand or leaving it out on your kitchen counter isn’t going to cut it. Biometric safes are a great option to ensure that you have quick access to your firearm, if needed, but your children do not. Remember, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with Texas firearm storage laws.