Background

Since 1836 the Texas Constitution has declared that Texans possessthe "Right to Keep and Bear Arms." However, this right is not absolute and prior to September 1, 2011, Texas employees who were lawfully authorized to possess concealed hand guns, firearms, and ammunition (collectively "firearms") could transport them almost anywhere in their motor vehicles except at the workplace if their employers had a broad no-firearms policy that extended to employer-provided parking lots. Noting that such policies failed to consider Texas' gun laws, its strong sporting culture, or that Texans transport firearms in their vehicles to protect themselves in a lawful and responsible manner, Texas legislators have passed a new law that extends the rights of employees to keep, store, and transport legally possessed firearms in their personal vehicles to their employers' parking lots.

Who is Affected?

Most public and private employers — except school districts, charter and private schools — are affected by the new law.