TX SB298

Expands weapon-carrying authority for community supervision and corrections department officers and juvenile probation officers to allow carrying weapons regardless of whether they are actively engaged in official duties, provided they meet existing certification and authorization requirements

Prohibits establishments serving the public from restricting weapon-carrying by community supervision officers, juvenile probation officers, and honorably retired peace officers or qualified retired law enforcement officers who are otherwise authorized to carry

Adds juvenile probation officers to the list of protected individuals under the criminal offense of taking or attempting to take a weapon from public safety personnel (Section 38.14, Penal Code)

Extends exemptions from unlawful carrying statutes (Sections 46.02 and 46.03) to qualified retired law enforcement officers carrying in establishments serving the public

Takes effect September 1, 2025, with provisions applying only to causes of action and offenses occurring on or after that date