A bill under consideration in the Texas Senate could strip State Fair of Texas organizers of their ability to prohibit firearms on fairgrounds.
Senate Bill 1065, currently pending in the Senate State Affairs Committee, seeks to prevent contractors and leaseholders from banning firearms on property owned by government entities. The legislation would directly impact the State Fair of Texas, which currently bars firearms during the annual event at Fair Park in Dallas. Organizers argue the restriction is justified because they lease the property from the city of Dallas.
Supporters of the bill say the current policy extends beyond the fairgrounds and leaves fairgoers vulnerable. Gary Zimmerman, a licensed handgun instructor, testified before the committee and described an incident in which a couple was robbed while walking to their car after leaving the fair.
Opponents argue the measure would undermine the ability of event organizers to enforce site-specific safety protocols tailored to large gatherings.
The bill remains in committee as lawmakers continue to hear testimony.
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