Texas Penal Code Section 46.02 allows lawful adults to carry handguns in private vehicles or watercraft if not in plain view, gang-related, or possessed by a prohibited person. Houston cannot impose additional vehicle restrictions.
Texas Penal Code Section 46.02 governs unlawful carrying of weapons. A person 21 or older not engaged in criminal activity may transport a handgun inside a private motor vehicle or watercraft they own or control. The handgun must not be in plain view unless carried in a holster, the person must not be a member of a criminal street gang, and the person must not be prohibited from possession under state or federal law. Long guns generally may be transported without these restrictions. Houston cannot regulate vehicle storage of firearms beyond state law due to Government Code Section 229.001 preemption. Employers may restrict firearms in company-owned vehicles on private property under specified conditions.
Unlawful carrying of a handgun in a vehicle is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $4,000 and up to one year in county jail; gang involvement elevates to felony charges.
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