Texas Lawmakers Want To Fine Some Who Post Signs Forbidding Guns
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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — The Texas Legislature Saturday approved Senate Bill 273, which would forbid state or local government agencies from posting "no guns" signage. If passed, official entities would be fined if they post signs that might intimidate gun license-holders who are within their rights to carry weapons.
Fines would be up to $1,500 for the first offense; $10,000 maximum for repeat violations. The Texas Attorney General's Office would receive complaints and investigate. Offending governmental bodies would have 15 days to remove signs before being fined.
The bill passed in the House 116-23. It will be sent to Gov. Greg Abbott to be signed into law.
Authored by Tea Party-backed Republican Sen. Donna Campbell, the plan passed both chambers with little debate, despite opposition from some municipal groups.
The bill allows for some provisions for maintaining gun-free zones in polling places, courts, and private property.
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