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Bill

HB 4159

Relating to prohibiting the manufacture, assembly, or ownership of unmarked firearms and other conduct involving certain firearms and component parts of firearms; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ron Reynolds

Texas bill criminalizes manufacturing and owning unmarked firearms while establishing associated fees and offenses, marking a departure from the state's traditionally permissive gun laws.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #fees&othernontaxrevenue--state(i0362) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #weapons(i0887)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4159

Legislative bill overview

HB 4159 proposes to criminalize the manufacture, assembly, and ownership of unmarked firearms (commonly known as "ghost guns") in Texas. The bill also creates criminal offenses related to certain firearms and component parts, and establishes a fee structure for compliance or enforcement.

Why is this important

Ghost guns—untraceable firearms made without serial numbers—have become a growing concern for law enforcement agencies nationwide, as they complicate criminal investigations and circumvent existing gun registration systems. This bill would represent a significant shift in Texas firearms policy, as the state has historically maintained permissive gun laws and strong protections for gun ownership rights.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional challenges: Opponents will likely argue the bill violates Second Amendment rights and Texas constitutional provisions protecting firearm ownership, particularly regarding pre-manufacture components
  • Enforcement and definition issues: The bill's scope depends heavily on how "unmarked" is defined and whether it applies to component kits, partially completed frames, or finished firearms—creating potential ambiguity
  • Conflict with state/federal policy: This contradicts Texas's existing permissive firearm stance and may conflict with federal law regarding which components constitute regulated "firearms"

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

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