The Texas Senate has given preliminary approval to House Bill 3053, legislation that would prohibit cities and counties from organizing or participating in gun buyback programs.
The bill, which previously passed the House, is now poised for final Senate approval.
Introduced by Rep. Wesley Virdell (R-Brady), HB 3053 aims to prevent local governments from using public funds or resources to purchase firearms from civilians with the intent of reducing the number of privately owned guns.
The measure would also bar municipalities from sponsoring or facilitating such events in partnership with nonprofits or law enforcement agencies.
Supporters of the bill argue that gun buyback programs are largely symbolic and ineffective in curbing gun violence. They contend that these initiatives often collect non-functional or obsolete firearms and do little to address crime.
State Sen. Bob Hall (R-Edgewood), a proponent of the bill, described it as a “necessary guardrail against misuse of local authority.”
Opponents, including some city officials and gun safety advocates, argue that buyback programs provide a voluntary and non-confrontational way for residents to dispose of unwanted firearms, potentially preventing accidents or theft.
They also view the legislation as part of a broader pattern of state interference in local policymaking.
The bill is part of a broader legislative session that has seen several firearms-related proposals, including efforts to expand permitless carry and limit local governments' ability to regulate gun storage.
If signed into law, HB 3053 would take effect on September 1, 2025, effectively ending all publicly sponsored gun buyback events in Texas.
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