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Bill

HB 889

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of the offense of making a firearm accessible to a child; increasing a criminal penalty.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Joe Moody

Texas bill increases criminal penalties for adults who negligently leave firearms accessible to children, aiming to reduce accidental shootings and youth deaths through stronger deterrence.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #criminalprocedure--sentencing&punishment(i0205) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #weapons(i0887)
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Bill Summary · HB 889

Legislative bill overview

HB 889 modifies Texas law regarding the criminal offense of making a firearm accessible to a child by increasing the penalties for this violation. The bill enhances punishments for individuals who negligently or recklessly leave firearms within reach of minors, making it a more serious offense in the state's penal code.

Why is this important

Child firearm access incidents result in unintentional shootings, suicides, and deaths among minors each year. Stronger penalties aim to incentivize responsible gun storage practices and hold adults accountable for preventable tragedies involving children and unsecured weapons.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates may argue that increased penalties constitute additional restrictions on firearm ownership and use, viewed as an infringement on constitutional rights
  • Definitional ambiguity: Questions about what constitutes "accessible" and whether the law creates undue burden on responsible gun owners in shared living spaces or homes with visitors
  • Enforcement disparities: Concerns that enforcement could vary significantly across jurisdictions and potentially be applied unevenly based on socioeconomic factors or demographics

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

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