Texas Flyers Who Don’t “Intentionally” Pack Guns Catch Break
Erica Berardi September 04, 2015
Xray scan detects weapon in criminals briefcase
Texas travelers who forget to remove firearms before entering secured airport areas may catch a break under a new state law.
Gun-toting Texas flyers who forget they are carrying a concealed weapon may not face prosecution, thanks to a new Texas law that went into effect Tuesday.
“Many of the travelers carrying handguns are concealed handgun license holders who have grown accustomed to having the handgun and have forgotten that they have the handgun with them,” according to Texas’ Senate Research Center. “There should be a reasonable alternative to immediate arrest and confiscation so a responsible concealed handgun license holder can return the firearm to the license holder’s car or home.”
Under previous law, flyers caught carrying a handgun and other weapons into secured areas of airports were subject to immediate arrest and confiscation of the gun.
For eligibility to exemption to arrest, confiscation and/or prosecution, flyers must not have “intentionally, knowingly or recklessly” brought a firearm into a secured airport area. In addition, the owner must be licensed to carry a concealed weapon and leave the secured area immediately upon notification that the flyer had a weapon in possession.
[Photo: iStock]
I think you shouldn't be that clueless when you carry a gun. I have no problem with no criminal prosecution and the right to keep your gun, but I think a fine between $250 and $500 is in order. In enough to remind the person that they were dumb and stupid.
TX is simply trying to make its laws fair and even-handed: if the mentally retarded are eligible for the death penalty, surely they should be eligible to maintain concealed carry permits.
I'm a combat veteran , taught to shoot by another veteran , my father . He taught and demanded absolute self discipline and presence of mind when handling firearms . If one does not or can not maintain the discipline necessary to know where their pistol is at all times I question whether they should even handle firearms . Should they get a break if they are so feeble minded as to leave a firearm in their carry-on ? I think not , they should suffer the consequences and I would not be opposed to confiscation either .
I hold a Texas CHL and fly many times each year. I could not possibly forget that I am carrying no matter where I am but especially at the airport. Anyone who is licensed to carry to should be very aware at all times that they are carrying. However, while forgetting does not make you a threat, it does make you kind of stupid. Odds are, though, that the TSA wouldn't even notice half the time. And that's the scary part.
Everyone is looking for the wrong threat including the TSA. You can make plenty of very dangerous items from your local store that are more deadly or destructive than a gun that that will pass security. When the next unfortunate incident happens the security at airports will adapt to stop the new threat. The best thing that has happened since 9/11 is everyday people/passengers will not sit back and let an act of terror occur. So next time some crazy terrorist says sit back in your seat and you will be safe it will be ordinary people who solve the problem eliminate the threat. God bless the United States and our people.