Bill to reduce concealed gun class time considered

By Michael Brick, Associated Press —

AUSTIN, Texas — Lawmakers are considering a proposal to reduce the amount of class time required for a concealed gun permit.

Under a bill heard by the Senate Criminal Justice Committee on Tuesday, new applicants would need four to six hours of classroom instruction. Current law requires ten to 15 hours.

The classes would still cover dispute resolution, gun safety and gun storage. Applicants would still have to pass firing range tests.

New Braunfels Republican Sen. Donna Campbell described her bill as a defense of the Second Amendment. It drew little opposition. Several gun safety instructors said the long class sessions have limited value.

Democratic Committee Chairman John Whitmire of Houston spoke in favor of the bill. He has taken the class. He said “it really seemed like it went on forever.”