The Texas Handgun Association traces its roots back to 1997, when it was established under the name Texas Concealed Handgun Instructor Association, just a year after the enactment of the Texas concealed handgun law, now known as the License To Carry Handgun (LTC). Initially, our membership comprised instructors certified by the Texas Department of Public Safety, tasked with training Texas residents on the lawful carrying of handguns as per the state’s regulations.
As the years progressed, so did our organization’s scope and reach. In 2003, we broadened our membership to include license holders and individuals interested in self-defense through handgun carry. Consequently, our name evolved to the Texas Concealed Handgun Association. Recognizing the evolving landscape of firearm regulations, in 2019, our members collectively decided to streamline our identity by removing “Concealed” from our name, reflecting Texas’s transition to both concealed and open carry. Thus, the Texas Handgun Association was born.
At the core of our mission lie several key objectives:
- Advancing and refining the Texas License to Carry Handgun Law.
- Advocating for the interests and concerns of our members to various stakeholders, including the public, media, Texas Department of Public Safety, and legislators.
- Fostering a culture of responsible firearms safety, ownership, and usage within our communities.
- Providing our members with up-to-date information on relevant laws, curriculum, and topics pertaining to the License to Carry Handgun program.
- Upholding rigorous standards for firearm instruction and training.
- Safeguarding the rights of law-abiding citizens to possess, maintain, and carry firearms for personal protection.
Through these endeavors, the Texas Handgun Association remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting firearm education, safety, and responsible ownership, ensuring that Texans can exercise their rights while upholding the highest standards of legality and proficiency.