There are several new laws becoming effective on January 1st, 2016 in the state of Texas, including the controversial open carry allowance.

Texas will see a major change in 2016: the ability to open carry. The bill was signed into law on June 13th, 2015 by Texas governor Greg Abbott.

While this is an important piece of legislation to be familiar with, other industries will see the effects of new laws this year.

Here are the laws that will become effective in Texas on January 1st, 2016.

  • Open Carry - EFFECTIVE JAN. 1 EXCEPT SEC. 32, WHICH TAKES EFFECT SEPT. 2019. Individuals may obtain a license to carry handguns openly. Those with a CHL may continue to carry legally. Curriculum for the license will be updated to reflect new requirements regarding holsters and secure carrying methods. Businesses may post signage banning open carry and concealed handguns.
  • Epinephrine Administration - SEC. 1 EFFECTIVE JAN. 1. Pharmacists can administer epinephrine to a patient under the rules set by the Texas State Board of Pharmacy after September 1, 2015.
  • Commercial Licenses and Permits - EFFECTIVE JAN 1. EXCEPT SEC. 35, WHICH TAKES EFFECT JAN. 30. There will be new fees for getting a commercial driver's license and increased penalty for operating a commercial vehicle without a commercial driver's license or learner's permit.
  • State and Local Taxes - SEC. 20 EFFECTIVE JAN 1. This section clarifies the definition of "nonprofit community business organization" to include Type A and Type B corporations and only references ad valorem (based on the value of the property) taxes. Changes are also being made to these tax laws:
  • Texas Real Estate License - EFFECTIVE JAN 1. EXCEPT SEC. 18, WHICH WAS EFFECTIVE SEPT. 2015. This bill changes some of the terminology used in Occupations Code. This will include the expansion of the definition of "broker" and changing the term "salesperson" to "sales agent." Creates procedures for lawsuits against brokers and agents and changes some of the requirements of continuing education.

For information about all legislation in Texas, visit the Legislative Reference Library website.

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