TX HB435

Creates new criminal offense under Section 46.022 of the Penal Code for carrying a firearm (handgun or long gun) on or about one's person in a public place while intoxicated, classified as a Class C misdemeanor

Exempts peace officers and special investigators from the prohibition regardless of whether they are on duty, and exempts persons carrying unloaded firearms encased in a container

Defines "public place" to exclude the interior of a personal motor vehicle (not mass transit) and the person's private residence including curtilage

Specifies that having a concealed handgun license or other legal authorization to carry a firearm is not a valid defense to prosecution under this offense

Removes self-defense justification for use of force when the actor was carrying a firearm while intoxicated in violation of this new section, and adds the offense to the list of activities that constitute a common nuisance

Takes effect September 1, 2025, applying only to offenses committed on or after that date