Representatives Lavender, Paddie File Open Carry Bill - January 25, 2013

AUSTIN -- State Representatives George Lavender (R-Texarkana) and Chris Paddie (R-Marshall) filed H.B. 700 which will allow the open carry of handguns by concealed handgun license holders.

"This bill allows law abiding, licensed individuals to more fully exercise their 2nd Amendment rights," said Rep. George Lavender. "At the time when the federal government is increasingly infringing upon our 2nd Amendment rights, we are saying that if you are a law abiding citizen, we want you to be able to defend yourself, your family and your property."

H.B. 700 removed the requirement that a handgun be concealed from several code sections. It does not change the licensing or background check requirements for acquiring a handgun or a concealed handgun license.

"Texas is one of the very few states that does not allow its citizens some form of open carry. Texas should not be a laggard in supporting gun rights, but rather should be leading the fight to protect our 2nd Amendment rights," said Rep. Chris Paddie. "We are committed to supporting the 2nd Amendment rights of all Texans and this bill shows our continued commitment to the 2nd Amendment, even in the face of increasing federal scrutiny."

Rep. Lavender is in his second term in the Texas House of Representatives, where he represents District 1, including Bowie, Red River, Lamar and Franklin Counties. In the 82nd Legislature, Rep. Lavender served on the Transportation and the Land & Resource Management Committees. He has been a champion of private property rights, free market policies, low taxes, retired teachers and public education. Rep. Lavender is a small businessman and is involved with commercial real estate. He and his wife Jan are members of the First Baptist Church-Moore's Lane, in Texarkana.

Rep. Paddie is serving his first term in the Texas House of Representatives, where he represents District 9, including Cass, Marion, Harrison, Panola, Shelby and Sabine Counties. Rep. Paddie is looking forward to working on issues relating to public education, the Texas Water Plan and economic development. Rep. Paddie is the general manager of a radio station in Marshall, where he also hosts a morning talk show. He and his wife Brooke are members of the Immanuel Baptist Church in Marshall.