Should you have to pay to exercise your constitutional rights? Some lawmakers in Texas say “no,” and are sponsoring legislation to reduce or eliminate the cost of a license to carry a concealed handgun.
Currently, Texas is considered to have the country’s highest set of CCW fees: A five-hour class costs $75 to $100, the state license fee totals $140 plus $10 for fingerprinting, and permit holders are subject to a $70 renewal fee every five years. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is on record supporting the lower fees, while the National Rifle Association is prepared to put its full weight behind the bill. Kimberly Black, a firearms instructor, told FOX-4 she believes the $200 in fees keeps some Texans from getting their license. “I don’t think it should be something where they are prohibited because of the fact they can't afford to pay for it,” Black explained.
The bill is set to be reviewed in January’s legislative session.
