As Texas Legislative Session Ends, Controversial Gun Bill Passes For Disaster Areas

AUSTIN (WBAP/KLIF) – As the 86th Legislature winds down, one of the last bills passed allows Texans to carry their handguns for a full week following the declaration of a natural disaster. The bill passed by a 16-15 vote and is intended to discourage looting in affected areas. Opponents of the bill say it will create more problems than it solves, but attorney Edwin Walker of Texas Law Shield in Houston says it is needed to prevent gun owners from having their weapons stolen when disaster strikes. House Bill 1177 will now go to the Governor’s desk.