Thread: Texas sees 40% spike in handgun permit applications

Texas sees 40% spike in handgun permit applications
Associated Press - May 8, 2008 4:35 PM ET

AUSTIN (AP) - A report today says Texans are applying for concealed handgun licenses at a rate nearly 40% higher than a year ago.

The Houston Chronicle reports there's a backlog in new applications and permit renewals.

Handgun instructors point to factors ranging from the looming presidential election to newly strengthened privacy laws for Texas gun owners.

The Chronicle says Texas is taking one month longer than the 60 days allowed by law to process original applications. Renewals are going 80 days past the mandated 45-day period.

Texas Department of Public Safety spokeswoman Tela Mange says they're having delays because of the tremendous increase in applications.

Mange says DPS is paying overtime and hiring temporary workers to reduce the backlog.

Concealed handgun licenses in Texas face renewal every five years.

Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

http://www.kcbd.com/Global/story.asp?S=8291580

Texans are arming themselves rapidly?

W

I suspect this is happening in ALOT of states.

As of lately you can carry a concealed loaded handgun in your vehicle , without a permit .
So sales of handguns have soared .


Yea though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death
71000 Americans killed by illegals since 9-11

You have always been able to carry personal firearms in your vehicle in Texas but under certain circumstances. The 2005 law you mentioned defines a traveler and how to travel with your firearms.

It's not just the men of Texas. In the last three months, I know two women that have purchased firearms and aquired a license to carry.

Dixie

Dixie , you have not been allowed to carry a loaded handgun in your vehicle in Texas , a unloaded rifle maybe , this is a new castle law .

Yea though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death
71000 Americans killed by illegals since 9-11

http://www.io.com/~velte/FAQ.htm

As I said, carry firearms (not just handguns) under special circumstances. Even criminals can be considered "travelers" and that was the problem. The 2006 law defined traveler. Also, on your person, does not include the trunk of your car. There were also rules if you were carring an excessive amount of cash or property like diamonds. Long guns have never been an issue but there are rules.

The Castle Doctrine has to do with defending your life and property and takes away the guess work by a jury of determining self defense. It's based on the principle that a man's house is his castle and he has a right to defend it.

Text of the Castle Doctrine
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/ ... 00378F.htm

Dixie