TexasCHLforum.com

The problem I have with this whole "secured parking lot" business is that it will still effectively disarm people during their entire day if they have to go to work that day. Depending on the wording of the law, this change may not do CHL holders any good.

We have to understand what this bill is actually for.
As it is now, (pre HB896) the law defines places that you cannot carry legally. It also gives owners the option of barring carrying on their property. Both of these are defined as "premises".
For example, you cannot carry on the “premises� of a business that derives 51% or more of their income from on premises alcohol consumption; you cannot carry on the “premises� of a hospital IF it is posted with a 30.06 sign; You cannot carry on the “premises� of a school; etc.
The law goes on to define what “premises� means. In the law it is NOT the parking area, sidewalks, and a few other outside public type areas.
So, without HB896, it is legal to store your firearm in your car. That is to say, you will not be arrested for it. You could however still be fired for doing so.

What HB896 is meant to do is forbid an employer from firing you for doing something that is legal, but that they don’t like.

HB896 is to protect employees from being fired while doing something entirely legal. It is not to make the act legal, but to protect you from retribution from employers.

Obviously, I’m not a lawyer, nor do I play one on the internet. Take this at the value you paid for it.

Scott

Does anyone have an idea why this one has stalled? Is there any hope for this legislation, if not this session then next?

Very strong opposition from industry! It'll take more work during the "off season," hopefully including an interim study. Many folks said it would never even get out of committee, but they under estimated the support this bill had.

Regards,
Chas.