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SB 195

Relating to a required waiting period for certain firearm transfers; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by José Menéndez

SB 195 mandates a waiting period for certain Texas firearm transfers and creates criminal penalties for violations, aiming to reduce impulsive gun violence and suicide.

Referred to State Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #weapons(i0887)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 195

Legislative bill overview

SB 195 would impose a mandatory waiting period before certain firearm transfers can be completed in Texas and establish criminal penalties for violations. The bill specifically targets the time between purchase initiation and actual transfer of the weapon to the buyer.

Why is this important

Waiting period laws are designed to reduce impulsive firearm-related violence and suicide by creating a cooling-off period. Texas currently has no state-level waiting period requirement, making this a significant policy shift if passed. The criminal penalties would create enforceable consequences for sellers or transfer agents who bypass the requirement.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Opponents argue mandatory waiting periods infringe on constitutional rights to bear arms and may unconstitutionally delay lawful purchases
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language specifying "certain firearm transfers" leaves unclear which transactions would be covered (private sales, licensed dealers, gifts, etc.)
  • Rural/accessibility impacts: Extended timelines may disproportionately burden rural Texans with limited access to dealers, requiring multiple trips
  • Effectiveness debate: Research on waiting periods is mixed; supporters cite suicide reduction data while skeptics question impact on criminal access to firearms
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Unclear how the state would monitor and enforce compliance, particularly for private transactions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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