April 19-- The Texas Senate has endorsed a bill that would permit paramedics and other first responders, including volunteer firefighters, to carry concealed handguns in restricted areas.
WFAA reports that the bill by Sen. Don Huffines, R-Dallas, met little resistance in the Republican-controlled Senate on Tuesday, and a similar measure is pending in the House.
Huffines says first responders often arrive at crime scenes even before police and could be in danger if the situation is not yet contained. He says paramedics and firefighters should be allowed to protect themselves if necessary.
The bill does have safety measures in place. Eligible first responders will need to get the usual concealed handgun license, plus an extra 20 hours of training, and they'll only be allowed to carry in restricted areas while on duty. Training would include tactical response shooting and how to seek cover.
