TexasCHLforum.com

Open carry will probably not pass in Texas, at least in the near future. With that said, I would like to see something passed such as that suggested by Florida, i.e. HB 45, which protects concealed weapons permit holders from being prosecuted if their guns are accidentally exposed. I know Texas already has something like this, but I would like to see it strengthened, where a huge burden of proof would be required by L.E. prior to arrest and seizure. My greatest fear, and much of my money on IWB holsters, are in my concerns of L.E. arresting me just due me bending over to pick something up or through a chance gust of wind. I personally don't have the money or time to be spent on proving it was an accident, while an anti-CCW L.E. officer claims are different. I do remember Harris county when CCW first began and with their problems with traveling with a firearm. With my work I have a chance to talk to L.E. officers from everywhere within Central Texas. While 99%, just a number, not verifiable, of those I speak to have no problem and in fact fully support CCW, there are some that are fully anti and have the mentality to arrest first and let the DA or courts figure it out. Not a bang against L.E. just a fact as I see it. These anti-CCW L.E. guys are usually transplants and hopefully those veterans within their Departments can assist them into the Texas state of mind. Matter of fact one L.E. gentleman, from Burnett, stated he would prone someone like me out, disarm, handcuff and transport, just by being called in by a concerned civilian. I know the DA of Burnett county, so I don't think it would go anywhere. But, again I would have to go through the process with the knowledge that anything could happen, i.e. Las Vegas, COSTCO. I am not trying to start another thread, don't personally care about the why's of what occurred at that time, just explaining my fears. Even if open carry was allowed I personally would prefer not to. Not due to worries about someone taking me out first, stealing my firearm and whatnot, but just my concerns with frightening or otherwise creating a Faux Paus with other citizens while I just want to shop, eat or otherwise go about my daily living.