Brass knuckles, other self defense items will be legal to carry later in 2019

Memorial Day weekend, Gov. Greg Abbott concluded the 2019 session of the Texas Legislature. One of the bills that earned his signature was HB 446.



Memorial Day weekend, Gov. Greg Abbott concluded the 2019 session of the Texas Legislature. One of the bills that earned his signature was HB 446.

Image 1 of / 32 Caption Close Brass knuckles, other self defense items will be legal to carry later in 2019 1 / 32 Back to Gallery

If you are Texan interested in the art of weaponized self-defense, listen up.

Memorial Day weekend, Gov. Greg Abbott concluded the 2019 session of the Texas Legislature. One of the bills that earned his signature was HB 446.

The bill, which was primarily authored by Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, lifts the state's ban on carrying brass knuckles and kitty key chains in public.

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Moody told reporters that the bill is "another step toward getting rid of antiquated laws regarding weapons."

The old bill previously said "possessing knuckles is a class A misdemeanor" (up to one year in jail and/or a maximum fine of $4,000).

Individuals in Texas can start carrying these items legally beginning on Sept. 1, 2019. The new law also only would apply to cases on or after that date.

In the Texas House Research Organization bill analysis, the "supporters" section says "Knuckles are primarily a defensive tool and should not be classified with explosive weapons, machine guns, and other prohibited weapons."

The Texas Department of Public Safety released data the reveal 93 individuals were convicted of brass knuckle violations in 2017.

Peter Dawson is a digital reporter in Houston. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | Peter.Dawson@chron.com | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here.