What Does Open Carry Mean for Texas?

Concealed handgun license holders will be able to carry their guns openly starting in 2016.
 

By Laura RiceDecember 29, 2015 1:40 pm,

Dozens of new laws go into effect in Texas in the new year. While some make changes to license plates or give tax exemptions, perhaps the most talked-about new Texas law will allow concealed handgun license holders to carry their weapons openly.

The Austin American-Statesman’s State Capitol reporter Chuck Lindell explains how open carry will operate starting Jan. 1.

“It means for the 826,000 Texas adults with a concealed handgun license or those with a license from the 42 states Texas recognizes, they no longer have to carry their handgun concealed,” he says.

Those with licenses, Lindell says, will be able to carry firearms openly, but they must have a holster on the shoulder or hip.

What you’ll hear in this segment: 

– How many other states allow some form of open carry

– Which Texas businesses do not plan to allow guns

– Why prohibiting guns in public buildings is being debated