Texas House Passes Bill to Prohibit Gun Buyback Programs
The Texas House passed HB 3053, a bill that would prohibit local governments from conducting gun buyback programs. Lawmakers backing the bill argue that such initiatives waste taxpayer money and have limited impact on crime reduction. The measure now advances to the Texas Senate for debate.
Overview of Texas HB 3053 to Block Buyback Initiatives
The legislation specifically bans municipalities and local law enforcement agencies from hosting events that collect firearms from private citizens in exchange for cash or goods. Supporters believe these programs are symbolic and fail to address gun violence meaningfully. The bill reinforces Texas’s broader trend toward firearms deregulation.
Debate Surrounding Gun Buyback Program Effectiveness
Opponents of the bill argue that voluntary buybacks can serve as community outreach and reduce the number of unsecured or unwanted firearms. Critics say HB 3053 removes a non-punitive public safety option. The outcome in the Senate could influence similar legislation in other states.
Link below goes to NRA-ILA