In a written statement, Attorney General Ken Paxton announced that his office is considering legal action if the State Fair does not reverse its firearm ban within 15 days. Paxton argues that this new policy infringes upon the Second Amendment rights of Texans who are licensed to carry firearms, asserting that it violates state law.
Legal Grounds for the Ban
Texas law allows the carrying of handguns with or without a license, though certain restrictions apply. Paxton’s objection primarily focuses on licensed handgun carriers, noting that the State Fair’s firearm ban might be overstepping legal boundaries.
His office has stated that because the State Fair of Texas operates at Fair Park, which is owned by the city of Dallas, the fair’s firearm ban is unlawful.
Fair Park is managed by Fair Park First, a nonprofit organization, and the State Fair of Texas leases the property from the city for its annual event. According to Texas law, private properties and businesses have the right to prohibit firearms on their premises.
