This past legislative seesion Texas joined other states in passing open carry legislation for gun owners. In short, as of January 1, 2016, qualified individual will be permitted to openly carry firearms. The qualifications of gun owners and other frequently asked questions are addressed here. Just like for concealed carry, businesses/employers can restrict individuals from bringing guns into their place of business. Texas Penal Code Chapter 30.06 provides the “how” for concealed-carry. The new provisions for open carry will follow the same requirements, which contains very specific notice requirements. An article in the Dallas Morning News forecasts a new debate over open carry signs in the future. For now, the sign requirements:
— Must appear in contrasting colors with block letters at least one inch in height.
— Must be in both English and Spanish.
— Must be displayed in a “conspicuous manner” at the property’s entrance.
— Must say: “Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with an openly carried handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not enter this property with a handgun that is carried openly.”
Employers that want to restrict access should follow the statute
