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Very strong opposition from industry! It'll take more work during the "off season," hopefully including an interim study. Many folks said it would never even get out of committee, but they under estimated the support this bill had.

Regards,
Chas.

dws1117 wrote:What is the definition of secured parking area?

I hope to know more tomorrow, but I believe it will include a fenced area, controlled access, guards, etc.

Regards,
Chas.

There was always a concern about the private property aspect of this bill. I've posted my opinion on this issue, as well as reasons why it's not controlling with commercial property and an employer's property. I still think we have some "off-season" work to be done to get this passed, but I will be thrilled to be wrong.

A bill reported favorably from committee goes to the Calendars Committee where it may or may not be considered. If it is considered, it may or may not be set on the House Calendar for floor debate.

Regards,
Chas.

Yep, I did. The only witnesses I could recall were you and Alice. If I recall correctly, you were sitting next to Alice in the second row. That Internet feed is great.

Thanks again for your testimony.

Regards,
Chas.

mr fixit wrote:I was there to testify before the committee.

Thanks for your help. Are you a firefighter?

The amendment would allow prohibition in an employer's secured parking area only. A secured area is defined very narrowly. I'll post more details as I get them; hopefully tomorrow.

Regards,
Chas.

Today, HB896 was reported favoribly from the House Law Enforcement Committee, as amended. It now goes to the House Calendars Committee.

It's available to everyone and I suggest using it when certain bills are being debated. Here is the link: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlo/house/meetings.htm
On the left side of the screen, above the TLO, you'll see "Live Broadcast" and you can choose House or Senate. The next screen will show the various Committees with live hearings.

Give it a try, you'll like it. The only down side is you never know when your specific bill will come up.

Regards,
Chas.

HB896 that would allow CHL’s to have guns on employers’ parking lots and garages was heard in the House Law Enforcement Committee today, along with three other non-gun-related bills. There were good questions asked by the Committee and we had good testimony given for the bill. Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson also spoke in favor of HB896. I did not find the opposing testimony persuasive, but then I'm hardly unbiased on this issue.

All bills were left pending in the Committee. There are some issues that still have to be addressed to garner wider support, even if it has to be done during the "off-season." Dramatic changes, and those perceived to be dramatic, usually take more than one session to pass, so I'm not surprised that we're going to have to row this boat a bit longer. I'm not saying not to call your Representatives, but just don't be too disappointed if we have to do some more work to get it passed.

I was not in Austin, but watched it on the Internet. This is a great feature! I saw Alice Tripp, TSRA Lobbyist, and she did a good job for all of us. It was clear she worked the bill hard, based upon the testimony given and the questions asked. Good job Alice!

Regards,
Chas.