AUSTIN -- State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R - Odessa) signed on to co-author House Bill 910, which would legalize the licensed open carry of handguns in Texas. Landgraf supports this legislation to protect Texans' Second Amendment rights, while also making Texas communities safer.

"As a life-long Second Amendment advocate and hunter, I'm proud to help co-author this bill," Landgraf said. "In addition to having a constitutional right to bear arms, I believe all law-abiding Texans should have the ability to defend themselves."

If passed into law, House Bill 910 would allow concealed handgun license (CHL) holders to openly carry a holstered handgun. Currently, Texas is one of only six states that prohibit open carry of handguns.

"I have spoken with hundreds of fellow West Texans who have asked for their Second Amendment rights to be protected through an open carry bill," Landgraf explained.

House Bill 910 is modeled after the successful Concealed Carry Law passed in 1995. Studies show gun violence in Texas has been reduced by 40% since the Concealed Carry Law went into effect.

"I believe we will pass this open carry bill to enhance Texans' right to self-protection," Landgraf stated.

Landgraf represents District 81, which encompasses Andrews, Ector, Ward and Winkler Counties.

An experienced business lawyer who has worked in the oil and gas and health care industries, Landgraf currently works for the Todd, Barron, Thomason, Hudman & Baxter Law Firm and helps manage his family's ranch.

Representative Landgraf is a fourth-generation West Texan. He and his wife Shelby live in Odessa and are proud to call West Texas their home.