The law was unanimously passed in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, with a vote of 147-0. This law, signed by Governor Greg Abbott of Texas in May, overturns an existing ban on certain weapons, including self-defense keychains, clubs, and brass knuckles. As of September, it is now legal to carry brass knuckles, among other weapons, in Texas, allowing individuals to defend themselves in case of trouble.
The list encompasses a variety of weapons, including homemade firearms and improvised explosive devices. The possession, production, repair, transportation, or sale of items such as brass knuckles or a club is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, specific weapons have been outlawed since the initial enactment of the law in 1918.
The bill was designed to protect those who need or want to protect themselves. It is an instrument consisting of rings or guards made of a hard substance, such as brass, that is adapted or designed for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking someone with an enclosed fist, commonly known as brass knuckles, as defined under the Texas Penal Code.
The new legislation encompasses clubs, which are categorized as “implements that are specifically crafted, designed, or modified for the intention of causing severe physical harm or fatality by striking someone with the implement,” such as a baton, sap, chemical spray, or an axe.
Former Legislation regarding Brass Knuckles
Before the law was passed, possessing or carrying brass knuckles was considered a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail. The bill, supported by those who argued that brass knuckles are primarily used as a defensive weapon, stated that they should not be associated with prohibited weapons like explosives or machine guns.
It is long overdue that knuckles were removed, considering switchblades were removed from the banned list back in 2013. In some cases, individuals carry knuckles that are part of a keychain in case they require protection. Carrying a tool that is genuinely used for self-defense, individuals should not face a hefty fine or imprisonment.
Existing Texas Penal Statute
The Texas Penal Code Section 46.02 (a)(1) has recently been revised to state that prohibited weapons encompass objects such as:.
Get in touch with a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Travis County
Today, make an appointment to reach out to Granger and Mueller PC today if you or a close family member have been accused of a wrongdoing in relation to protecting yourself. It is crucial to converse with a proficient Austin criminal defense lawyer.
