HB 259 removes short-barrel firearms from the list of prohibited weapons under Texas law. By striking references to short-barrel firearms in the Texas Penal Code, this bill ends the criminal classification of possessing or manufacturing such firearms—in state law. This change affirms the rights of Texans to exercise their Second Amendment freedoms with less state interference.

The Right to Keep and Bear Arms Is Fundamental
The Libertarian Party of Texas (LPTexas) unequivocally supports the right of individuals to own, carry, and use firearms for self-defense and property protection (Platform § I.1.b). Government restrictions on specific weapon types—such as short-barrel firearms—are arbitrary infringements that criminalize peaceful behavior and punish self-reliant individuals for exercising a constitutional right.

Dismantling Unjust and Ineffective Gun Laws
HB 259 is a step toward dismantling laws that have no demonstrated public safety benefit but expose otherwise law-abiding citizens to criminal prosecution. LPTexas opposes all victimless crimes (Platform § I.6.d) and believes the state has no authority to determine what types of legally owned property a free person may possess.

Limiting Government Power Over Self-Defense
LPTexas affirms that only voluntary and peaceful interactions are legitimate in a free society. The force of government must not be used to restrict access to the means of self-defense, especially when such restrictions are based on bureaucratic classification rather than individual conduct (Platform § Statement of Principles).

Conclusion
The Libertarian Party of Texas supports HB 259 as a clear move toward restoring the full spectrum of Second Amendment rights. Texans should not face jail time for owning firearms that are legally protected under federal law. We urge lawmakers to pass HB 259 and reaffirm the principle that liberty—not control—is the foundation of a free and responsible society.