After the State Fair of Texas announced a ban on firearms this year, Attorney General Ken Paxton is warning the City of Dallas about what he describes as an “unlawful infringement on Second Amendment rights.”
Last week, fair organizers introduced a new set of safety regulations, including a ban on all firearms, even for those with a license to carry. Previously, licensed individuals were permitted to carry firearms at the fair. However, following a shooting incident last year at the fair’s food court, in which three people were injured, the policy was revised. The shooter, Cameron Turner, did not possess a license and reportedly snuck into the park.
Earlier this week, a group of 70 state lawmakers wrote a letter urging the State Fair to reconsider the policy. In response, fair officials stated that the ban was “a measure to create a more family-friendly atmosphere” and argued that, as a private organization, they have the right to set their own firearm policies.
However, Attorney General Ken Paxton is notifying the City of Dallas that the Fair’s argument is flawed.
According to a release from his office, the City of Dallas entered into a 25-year lease with the State Fair of Texas in 2002, authorizing the nonprofit organization to manage the governmental function of Fair Park during the twenty-four days of the annual event.
State law permits licensed gun owners to carry firearms in places owned or leased by governmental entities unless otherwise restricted by state law.
“Texas law clearly states that license to carry holders may not be prevented from carrying a firearm on property owned or leased by the government unless otherwise prohibited by state statute,” said Paxton. “The State Fair of Texas’s recent policy infringing on LTC holders’ Second Amendment rights is unlawful. Dallas has fifteen days to address the issue, or I will see them in court.”
Chris McNutt, President of Texas Gun Rights, praised Paxton’s action.
“We are grateful for the Attorney General’s swift action and strong support for the Second Amendment. It’s crucial that lawful gun owners are not stripped of their right to self-defense, especially at a public event like the Texas State Fair,” said McNutt.
The fair is scheduled to run from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, October 20.
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