The unlawful possession of a firearm by a person not lawfully present in the United States

Texas House Bill 4675, introduced by Representative Cole Hefner, seeks to make it a third-degree felony for individuals not lawfully present in the United States to possess a firearm. This bill amends Section 46.04 of the Texas Penal Code by adding Subsection (a-2), which specifically criminalizes firearm possession by unauthorized individuals. The bill also adjusts penalties, classifying offenses under Subsections (a) and (a-2) as third-degree felonies, while offenses under Subsections (a-1), (b), and (c) remain Class A misdemeanors. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB4675/id/3223503?utm_source=openai))

Supporters of HB 4675 argue that the bill provides state and local law enforcement with additional tools to address firearm possession by individuals not lawfully present in the U.S., potentially enhancing public safety. They point to incidents where unauthorized individuals have possessed firearms, leading to serious consequences, and believe this legislation could deter such actions. ([poliscore.us](https://poliscore.us/2026/tx/bill/2160/hb/4675?utm_source=openai))

Critics of HB 4675 express concern that the bill could disproportionately impact certain communities, potentially leading to increased arrests and legal challenges for individuals based on their immigration status. They worry about the potential for racial profiling and the strain on local law enforcement resources. ([poliscore.us](https://poliscore.us/2026/tx/bill/2160/hb/4675?utm_source=openai))