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Bill

HB 2356

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of certain devices intended to modify handguns.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ray Lopez and 1 co-sponsor

Texas bill criminalizes possession, manufacture, and sale of devices designed to convert handguns to automatic weapons, establishing state penalties for illegal conversion device trafficking.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #weapons(i0887)
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Bill Summary · HB 2356

Legislative bill overview

HB 2356 creates or modifies criminal penalties related to devices designed to modify handguns, such as switches that convert semi-automatic pistols to fully automatic fire. The bill addresses the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, and sale of these conversion devices, which have become increasingly prevalent in criminal activity across Texas and nationwide.

Why is this important

Auto sear switches and similar devices have become a significant law enforcement concern, as they enable rapid modification of legally purchased firearms into illegal automatic weapons. This bill attempts to establish state-level criminal consequences for trafficking in these devices, complementing existing federal restrictions, and may influence how Texas prosecutes crimes involving modified weapons.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates may argue the bill infringes on lawful firearm ownership and modification, though proponents counter it targets criminal conversion devices rather than legitimate weapon components
  • Definitional clarity: The bill's language regarding what constitutes a "device intended to modify" handguns may be too vague, potentially capturing legitimate repair tools or components, or conversely, too narrow to address emerging conversion methods
  • Enforcement challenges: Defining and proving intent to modify handguns could create prosecution difficulties, as sellers might claim devices have other purposes

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

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