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Press Release #123115(15)-Open Carry Law Starts Tomorrow

Citizens who possess a current and valid Concealed Handgun License or a new Hand Gun License will be allowed to open carry handguns beginning tomorrow. In addition to having a valid license to carry a handgun, the license holder must carry the handgun in a belt holster or shoulder holster, and be able to present the valid license to a Peace Officer upon request.

Some of the locations where handguns are not permitted to be carried are the physical premises of a school or a school function, school transportation, the secure area of an airport, polling locations on the day of an election or while early voting is in progress, premises of courts or court offices, correctional facilities, hospitals or nursing homes, on the premises of a business where 51% or more of its income is derived from the sale or service of alcohol, and at governmental meetings when it is posted that the carrying of handguns or firearms is prohibited.

In addition to these locations, individual business and property owners can prohibit the carrying of concealed handguns, the carrying of open handguns, or both. Business and property owners can post the notice at the entrance to the premises or give verbal notice. Also, a license holder cannot carry a handgun openly or concealed if they are intoxicated.

The San Angelo Police Department asks citizens to exercise their rights to carry open and concealed handguns responsibly. License holders should ensure they are familiar with sections 30.06, 30.07, 46.03, and 46.035 of the Texas Penal Code to ensure compliance with the law and a full listing of where the open carrying or concealed carrying is prohibited as only a few are listed in this press release.

The SAPD also asks citizens not to interfere with the rights of those who carry handguns openly or concealed, but if you see something suspicious or reckless please call 911.