New Federal Firearms Law Effective February 22 2010

Date: February 25, 2010
Contact: Leslie Dubey, [phone]

New Federal Firearms Law Effective February 22, 2010

Big Thicket National Preserve subject to Texas firearms law[s]

A change in federal law effective February 22, allows people who can legally possess firearms under federal, Texas, and local law to possess those firearms in Big Thicket National Preserve.

The new federal law makes possession of firearms in national parks also subject to the firearms laws of the state and communities where the parks are located.

“We have been working closely with local, state, and federal officials to ensure that we clearly understand the provisions of the laws that will now apply to our visitors when they are in the park,” said Big Thicket National Preserve Superintendent Todd Brindle. We encourage every visitor who may wish to bring firearms to the park to do their research ahead of time and ensure that they are aware of and abide by the laws that apply.  Our goal is to provide safe, enjoyable park visits for everyone, and to preserve this very special place for people today and future generations.”

The new federal law has no effect on existing laws and regulations regarding the use of firearms in national parks or hunting. Hunting is still allowed in Big Thicket National Preserve with a park permit.  Federal law continues to prohibit firearms in certain facilities, such as park visitor centers; these facilities are posted with appropriate notices at public entrances.

National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis said, “We will administer this law as we do all others – fairly.  For nearly 100 years, the mission of the National Park Service has been to protect and preserve the parks and to help all visitors enjoy them. The parks belong to all Americans, and our commitment to the American people is to ensure the safety of our visitors and the special places that have been entrusted to our care.” 

For more information about firearms laws that apply to Big Thicket National Preserve, please visit http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/crime_records/chl/relatedlaws.htm. For more information about Big Thicket National Preserve visit https://www.nps.gov/bith.