Buckeye Reporter

On Aug. 8, the State Fair of Texas announced a new weapons policy that prohibits attendees from carrying firearms, knives, and other weapons at the event.

A press release stated: "As a private not-for-profit organization, the State Fair of Texas prohibits fairgoers from carrying all firearms, knives that are prohibited according to state law, clubs, explosive devices, ammunition, chemical dispensing devices, replicas or hoaxes, or other weapons of any kind. This includes Holders of a License to Carry, Constitutional Carry, Concealed Carry, and the Open Carry of firearms anywhere on the fairgrounds including Cotton Bowl Stadium."

The release also warned that "Guests will be channeled through weapons detection technology, which screens for dangerous weapons in the presence of a licensed and trained security officer."

This policy change is significant as it contrasts with last year's rules where licensed concealed carry was allowed in Fair Park.

Despite this ban raising questions about firearm prohibitions on government property, the State Fair of Texas emphasized its status as a private not-for-profit entity. However, Fair Park is owned by the city of Dallas and leased to the State Fair of Texas for event operations.

Texas law outlines specific types of government property where firearms are prohibited (Penal Code § 46.03). Additionally, state agencies and political subdivisions that unlawfully exclude law-abiding gun owners may face fines (Government Code § 411.209). The state's firearms preemption statute further restricts localities from enacting their own firearm regulations (Local Government Code § 229.001).

In response to this new policy, a coalition of state lawmakers and candidates for the Texas House has sent a letter urging the State Fair of Texas to rescind it. They have suggested that legislation might be necessary to address gun-free zones on public property. The state fair is scheduled to begin on Sept. 27.

© 2024 National Rifle Association of America, Institute for Legislative Action. This may be reproduced but not for commercial purposes.

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