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HB 956

Relating to the reporting of certain orders and convictions to the Department of Public Safety and Federal Bureau of Investigation for use with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for the transfer of firearms.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Cas Garcia Hernandez

Texas bill requiring courts and agencies to report criminal convictions and specific orders to FBI's gun background check system to prevent prohibited persons from purchasing firearms.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#criminalrecords(s0008) #family--familyviolence(i0353) #lawenforcement(i0510) #protectiveorders(s0495) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #weapons(i0887)
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Bill Summary · HB 956

Legislative bill overview

HB 956 would require Texas courts and relevant state agencies to report certain orders and criminal convictions to the Department of Public Safety and the FBI for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This aims to ensure that individuals prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law are consistently recorded in the national database used by licensed firearms dealers.

Why is this important

Background check systems are only effective if courts and agencies actually report disqualifying information. Gaps in reporting have historically allowed individuals with violent convictions or restraining orders to purchase firearms despite legal prohibitions. This bill addresses whether Texas's current reporting mechanisms adequately feed into NICS.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Expanded reporting requirements raise questions about data sharing practices, record retention, and whether certain order types (such as protective orders) should be part of permanent federal databases
  • Implementation costs and capacity: Courts and agencies would need resources to comply with new or enhanced reporting mandates, potentially creating administrative burdens
  • Scope ambiguity: The phrase "certain orders and convictions" is vague without seeing the actual bill text—determining which convictions and what types of orders qualify could be controversial (misdemeanors vs. felonies, civil vs. criminal orders)

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

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