WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 2650

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 Salman Bhojani

Texas bill mandating courts and law enforcement report criminal convictions and protective orders to FBI for firearm background check system.

Referred to Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs
#criminalrecords(s0008) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #family--familyviolence(i0353) #protectiveorders(s0495) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #weapons(i0887)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2650

Legislative bill overview

HB 2650 requires Texas courts and law enforcement to report certain orders and criminal convictions to the Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This reporting would strengthen data sharing between state and federal systems used to screen firearm purchasers.

Why is this important

Federal law prohibits certain individuals—including those convicted of felonies or domestic violence offenses, and those subject to protective orders—from purchasing firearms. However, gaps in reporting between state courts and federal databases can allow prohibited persons to pass background checks. Improved reporting directly affects public safety outcomes and the effectiveness of existing firearm regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Courts and local law enforcement may face increased administrative costs and operational challenges in establishing new reporting protocols
  • Privacy concerns: Expanded data sharing raises questions about information security, potential misuse of criminal justice records, and due process protections
  • Scope definition: Disagreement likely exists over which specific "orders and convictions" should trigger reporting (e.g., misdemeanor domestic violence vs. felonies only, temporary vs. permanent protective orders)

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

Sign in to ask a question.