The Texas House of Representatives recently passed Senate Bill (SB) 20, which allows guests to carry their weapons in hotels. Hotels are still able to require the concealment of weapons, but they must allow customers to keep them in their rooms. Under Texas law, it is a defense to prosecution if a person carries a gun on restricted premises or property, but quickly leaves after receiving notification that they were prohibited from carrying a firearm. Public and private employers are also authorized to prohibit their employees from possessing firearms or ammunition at the company facilities.
However, employers are generally not authorized to prohibit employees who legally own firearms or ammunition from transporting or storing firearms or ammunition in a privately-owned motor vehicle locked with a key in a parking area provided by the employer for employees. It is important to note that different rules or defenses may apply to people with valid licenses to carry handguns or with respect to firearms in certain residential properties or hotels. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the laws and regulations that apply to your specific situation. In Fort Worth, Texas, it is legal for guests to carry firearms in hotels as long as they abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the state. Guests must ensure that their weapons are concealed and that they leave the premises immediately upon notification that they are not allowed to carry firearms. Additionally, employers are not allowed to prohibit employees from transporting or storing firearms in their privately-owned vehicles.
It is important for individuals to be aware of the laws and regulations that apply to their specific situation.