Texas House Bill Restricts Utah CHL license

[MattC]

I know this topic has been around the forum for awhile but I thought it would benefit everyone to have a place to collaborate current and up-to-date information on the subject.

In the interest of full disclosure, I will state that I prefer the Utah's CHL to Texas' for the additional reciprocity that it offers, as well as the significantly reduced cost. Rather than debate the subject, I'd like it if this thread could be devoted to defeating HB 356, as I believe it is detrimental to all CHL holders, regardless of your preferred method of Licensing.

On 11/29/2010 Texas House Member Lon Burnam-D, of Fort Worth's District 90, filed HB 356. If passed, the state of Texas will no longer recognize non-resident, out of state CHLs carried by residents of Texas. (A 'loophole'' enjoyed by many Texas residents)

Here is a link that shows the bill's progress...
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup ... Bill=HB356

Here is a link to contact your representative if you'd like to get involved:
http://www.house.state.tx.us/resources/ ... s/#who_rep

The following is a copy of what I sent to my representative (details omitted). Feel free to use it yourself, if you feel so inclined.

Dear ____________________,

It has come to my attention that a bill (HB-356) has been filed which seeks to end the right of Texas residents to carry non-resident Concealed Handgun Licenses issued by other states. I strongly encourage you to oppose this bill.

I believe that this bill will hurt reciprocity agreements across the country for Texas CHL holders and create additional obstacles for law abiding citizens who wish to responsibly carry a firearm.

Furthermore, the fact that so many Texas residents are looking to other states for their CHL is evidence that, among other things, the Texas CHL fees are too high. I believe a reduction of the Texas CHL fees (classroom, application and renewal) would be a truly conservative, and pro-gun rights approach to bringing Texas residents back to the table on this issue.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.

Sincerely,
_______________

[Charles L. Cotton]

Thread already running on this topic. viewtopic.php?f=111&t=40727&hilit=hb356&start=0" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I strongly suggest against sending a letter with the arguments you have listed. Reciprocity will not be harmed by HB356 and this is not the vehicle to argue for a change in our current CHL statute or fees. The bill is ill-advised nevertheless.

Chas.