TEXAS HOUSE OKs BILL REDUCING HANDGUN LICENSE FEES

  

The Texas House tentatively passed a bill Tuesday that would reduce the fee of a license to carry.

Senate Bill 16 would cut the fee for a license to carry firearm from $140 to $40. In addition, it would cut the renewal fee from $70 to $40.

House lawmakers also included an amendment that would waive any licensing fees for peace officers.

Proponents of the bill say it is meant to reduce the burden of carrying a firearm. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made the bill one of his priorities for the session.

According to the Legislative Budget Board, the bill would cost the state $22 million in lost revenue over the next two years.

Opponents say the money generated from the fee should be used on pressing issues, like Texas schools or the child welfare system.

The bill would become law in September if it's approved by both chambers, and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott The bill will need a final vote to clear the House, but it is expected to pass.