Texas SB 1065 Clears Senate, Heads to House
May 1, 2025 – On April 30, 2025, the Texas Senate approved Senate Bill 1065 with a 20–11 vote, aiming to prohibit contractors leasing government-owned property from enforcing firearm bans, such as the one implemented by the State Fair of Texas. The bill now advances to the Texas House of Representatives for consideration.
The State Fair of Texas banned firearms in response to a shooting in the fair’s food court in 2023 that injured three people. The fair’s governing board implemented a policy change in August 2023, prohibiting firearms, even for those with valid handgun licenses, with the exception of current or retired law enforcement officers. This policy change was intended to enhance security and protect fairgoers.
The State Fair instituted its firearm ban in 2024 following a 2023 incident where a gunman injured three attendees. Under the current policy, only licensed peace officers are permitted to carry firearms on the fairgrounds. Senator Bob Hall (R–Rockwall), the bill’s author, contends that this policy infringes upon Texans’ rights to self-defense, stating that temporary control of government property should not be used to circumvent lawful firearm possession.
If enacted, SB 1065 would prevent lessees of public property from establishing gun-free zones unless explicitly authorized by state law. It also empowers residents and licensed gun holders to file complaints with the attorney general if they believe a contractor is unlawfully restricting firearm rights. Violations could result in civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $10,500.
Attorney General Ken Paxton has previously challenged the State Fair’s firearm restrictions, arguing they unlawfully infringe upon Second Amendment rights. Although the Texas Supreme Court upheld the Fair’s policy, Paxton has continued to pursue legal action against similar restrictions on other city-owned properties.
Opponents of the bill, including groups like Moms Demand Action, argue that it removes the flexibility needed by event organizers to ensure public safety, imposing a uniform mandate that may not suit all venues.
The bill’s progression reflects ongoing debates in Texas over the balance between gun rights and public safety at events held on government-owned properties.
