Texas AG Ken Paxton warns of legal action over State Fair of Texas gun ban

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a notice to the City of Dallas, demanding that it retract a statement made by the State Fair of Texas—the organization contracted to manage Fair Park during the annual event—that prohibits lawful firearm carrying on the premises.
DENVER, CO - MARCH 24: Joe Deedon, former law enforcement officer and owner of Tac*One Consulting holds a Glock pistol converted to fire Simunition as he teaches a "Lone Wolf" civilian active shooter response course for concealed weapons permit holders on March 24, 2018 in Longmont, Colorado. The class, based on a similar law enforcement course, is designed to challenge students mentally and physically leaving with a solid plan to defend themselves and others during the critical first moments of a deadly attack. (Photo by Rick T. Wilking/Getty Images) Photo credit (Photo by Rick T. Wilking/Getty Images)

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a notice to the City of Dallas, demanding that it retract a statement made by the State Fair of Texas—the organization contracted to manage Fair Park during the annual event—that prohibits lawful firearm carrying on the premises.

In 2002, Dallas signed a 25-year lease with the State Fair of Texas, granting the nonprofit control of Fair Park during the 24-day event. Recently, the State Fair announced a ban on licensed firearm carriers (LTC holders) from carrying guns within the park during the event. This policy contradicts state law, which allows licensed gun owners to carry firearms on government-owned or leased property unless otherwise restricted by state statute.

Since Fair Park is city-owned, the Attorney General's Office considers the State Fair's policy a violation of LTC holders' legal rights. Attorney General Paxton has indicated that legal action will follow if the City of Dallas does not reverse the policy within 15 days, seeking to obtain an injunction and civil penalties.

“Texas law clearly states that LTC holders cannot be barred from carrying firearms on government-owned or leased property unless specifically prohibited by state statute,” Paxton said. “The State Fair of Texas’s policy unlawfully infringes on LTC holders' Second Amendment rights. Dallas has 15 days to resolve this, or I will see them in court.”

Karissa Condoianis, Senior Vice President of Public Relations for the Texas State Fair said in a statement Wednesday over the situation:

LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Featured Image Photo Credit: (Photo by Rick T. Wilking/Getty Images)