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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is making headlines again, this time with a threat against the city of Dallas regarding the State Fair’s recent decision to ban firearms at the event. Paxton warned that legal action could be taken if the policy change is not rescinded within fifteen days.
The State Fair of Texas is at the center of controversy following the announcement of their new firearms ban, which comes in the wake of a shooting incident at last year’s fair. The move has sparked a debate on public safety and gun rights.
Paxton’s letter to the city pointed out that the nonprofit organization managing the fair’s operations at Fair Park was in violation of state law by implementing the ban. The attorney general highlighted the issue of licensed gun owners being allowed to carry in places owned or leased by governmental entities unless prohibited by state law.
The Fair Park premises, encompassing 277 acres, is at the center of this legal battle, with Paxton emphasizing that the majority of the park does not fall under gun-free zones as defined by Texas law.
Lawmakers, the NRA, and other advocacy groups have weighed in on the situation, with pressure mounting on the State Fair to reconsider their policy. The upcoming event from Sept. 27 to Oct. 20 is set to be a focal point for this ongoing debate.
Gun rights disputes are not new to Texas, with previous conflicts arising in places like zoos over imposing firearm restrictions. The intersection of public safety concerns and Second Amendment rights continues to be a contentious issue in the Lone Star State.
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