Abbott confident Legislature will pass permit-less bill

Governor Abbott was confident when speaking on Tuesday that the Texas legislature will pass a permit-less or constitutional-carry bill this session saying, “I think it can get across the finish line.”

The full Texas Senate could consider House Bill 1927 as early as Wednesday after it was approved by a newly formed, special committee on Constitutional Issues. The legislation already passed the Texas House.

If approved, the legislation would allow Texans to carry a handgun in public without obtaining a permit or license, receiving training, and passing a test as required now. The Governor said that 20 other states already have constitutional-carry, and that it’s already allowed in Texas for long guns.

Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who presides over the Texas Senate, said last week that the bill was still a few votes shy of the number needed to pass the bill, 18, but that he was continuing to work on building support for the legislation.

Late last week, several police chiefs from around the state held a news conference to oppose constitutional-carry for handguns saying training people how to use firearms should still be required.

Governor Abbott said last week he would sign the legislation if it arrives at his desk.