On September 1, 2021, Constitutional Carry went into effect. Anyone who is not restricted to carry a firearm (restrictions listed in Texas Penal Code 46.02 and 46.04), may carry a firearm in a belt or shoulder holster. Gun owners can’t carry their weapons into the same places that were prohibited under concealed carry. This includes bars, sports events, and high schools. Other places that may ban open carry are hospitals, churches, and government buildings with open meetings.
Citizens should only call 911 if they see someone violating the law. Possible violations include:
- The gun owner removed the gun from a secured holster.
- The gun owner seems intoxicated.
- The gun owner is committing a crime or acting recklessly or suspiciously.
The gun owner brings a gun into a private business where signs state guns are prohibited or if they refuse to leave when asked.
