WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 4995

Relating to the carrying of handguns by tactical medical professionals while on duty providing support to tactical units of law enforcement agencies.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Charles Schwertner and 1 co-sponsor

Texas law now permits tactical medical professionals supporting law enforcement tactical units to legally carry handguns while on duty, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#healthcareproviders(i0387) #lawenforcement #texascommissionon(v0986) #lawenforcement(i0510) #physicians(s1282) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #staffdevelopment&training(s0317) #weapons(i0887)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4995

Legislative bill overview

HB 4995 authorizes tactical medical professionals (such as paramedics and physicians) who are embedded with law enforcement tactical units to carry handguns while performing their duties. The bill permits these healthcare providers to be armed while providing medical support to SWAT teams and similar specialized law enforcement operations, effective September 1, 2025.

Why is this important

Tactical medical professionals operate in high-risk, active-threat environments where they may need to defend themselves or others while providing emergency medical care. This law clarifies their legal authority to carry firearms in these scenarios, addressing a potential liability gap where armed medical personnel could face criminal charges despite serving critical safety functions alongside tactical units.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority: The bill's exact definition of "tactical medical professionals" and which agencies' medical personnel qualify could create inconsistencies in implementation across Texas jurisdictions.
  • Training and certification standards: The legislation does not appear to mandate specific firearm training, licensing, or medical-tactical integration protocols, raising questions about readiness and safety protocols.
  • Dual-role concerns: Arming medical personnel may create confusion about their primary mission (medical care versus tactical support) and could affect their protected status under laws governing non-combatants in certain situations.

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

Sign in to ask a question.