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HB 2393

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 Trey Martinez Fischer

Texas bill criminalizes possession and sale of devices that convert handguns to automatic fire, addressing enforcement gap in federal auto-weapons prohibitions.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #weapons(i0887)
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Bill Summary · HB 2393

Legislative bill overview

HB 2393 creates or modifies criminal penalties for possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of devices designed to convert handguns into fully automatic weapons (commonly known as "auto sears" or "switches"). The bill establishes prosecutorial framework and defines which device modifications constitute criminal offenses under Texas law.

Why is this important

Conversion devices that enable handguns to fire automatically have become increasingly available and linked to gang violence and mass shooting incidents across the country. This bill addresses a enforcement gap by specifically criminalizing these modifications, which are already federally illegal but may require state-level prosecution to be effective at the local level.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Gun rights advocates may argue the bill infringes on constitutional protections, though courts have generally upheld restrictions on automatic weapons under existing federal law
  • Definition precision: Ambiguity about which devices are covered could lead to unintended consequences affecting legitimate gun repair shops or accessory manufacturers
  • Enforcement resources: Law enforcement capacity to identify and prosecute violations may be limited, raising questions about the bill's practical effectiveness

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

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