TX HB4818

Creates a new "ENHANCED" designation for Texas handgun licenses requiring applicants to be at least 25 years old (or 22 if military), have held a standard license for at least 4 years, and have no Class A misdemeanor convictions or Class B misdemeanor convictions within 15 years

Requires 32-48 hours of mandatory training including classroom instruction on de-escalation, self-defense, tactical movement, and legal consequences, plus at least 20 hours of in-person field instruction with 16 hours on a live-fire range covering tactical and low-light shooting

Allows enhanced license holders to carry concealed, holstered handguns in locations normally prohibited under Section 46.03, including schools, polling places, government courts, and amusement parks, provided the location lacks airport-style security screening

Prohibits government employers from banning enhanced license holders from carrying while on duty, with exceptions for school employees when armed school resource officers or marshals are present, or in areas with full security screening at all entry points

Requires the Department of Public Safety to adopt implementing rules by July 1, 2026, with training courses available starting September 1, 2026, and new criminal defense provisions taking effect for offenses committed on or after that date