TX HB834

Creates a criminal offense for intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carrying a firearm other than a handgun (such as rifles or shotguns) in counties with population over 1 million, or counties with population over 800,000 that are adjacent to only one other county on an international border

Exempts persons on their own premises or premises under their control from the restriction

Exempts persons inside or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft they own or control

Provides a legal defense when the property owner gives verbal or written authorization to carry, the carry is not otherwise prohibited by law, and the premises/vehicle/watercraft is not open to the public

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