Texas Democratic lawmakers filed roughly 20 bills seeking new firearm restrictions on November 9, the first day of prefiling for the 2027 legislative session.
The proposals include a red-flag law, background checks on private sales, and limits on rifle purchases and possession by people under 21. House Bill 218, filed by Rep. Ann Johnson of Houston, would repeal the 2025 state law that restricted extreme-risk protective orders and create a process for courts to temporarily require someone to surrender firearms. Under the bill, certain family members, household members, or law enforcement officers could petition a court. A temporary order could be issued without prior notice or a hearing, with a full hearing required within 14 days.
House Bill 613, by Rep. Suleman Lalani of Sugar Land, would require background checks through federally licensed dealers for private firearm transfers. Other measures would restrict the purchase, transfer, or possession of certain semiautomatic rifles by anyone under 21. Senate Bill 80, filed by Sen. Judith Zaffirini of Laredo, would limit transfers and possession of firearms defined as assault weapons for people under 21. House Bill 659, by Rep. Joe Moody of El Paso, would require licensed dealers to report certain multiple-gun or magazine purchases to law enforcement.
The filings come days after Democrats won the governor’s office and a majority in the Texas House in the November 3 election. Republicans retain control of the Senate. The 90th Legislature convenes January 12, 2027. None of the bills has been passed, and any that advance would require approval by both chambers and the signature of the governor-elect.
Gun-rights groups, including the National Rifle Association and Texas Gun Rights, have criticized the proposals. The NRA noted that roughly 35 firearm-related bills were filed on the first day of prefiling, with the majority aimed at new restrictions.
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