A Dallas judge has denied Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to block the State Fair of Texas’ gun policy. The policy, which allows concealed handguns on the fairgrounds but prohibits open carry, has been a source of contention between gun rights advocates and fair officials.
Paxton had filed a lawsuit against the fair in an attempt to block the policy, arguing that it violated a state law that prohibits government entities from enforcing gun regulations. However, Judge Shebly Holland ruled that the fair is a private entity and therefore not subject to the law.
The State Fair of Texas has had a long-standing policy of allowing concealed handguns on its grounds but prohibiting the open carry of firearms. This policy was implemented after the state passed a law allowing citizens with concealed carry permits to bring their guns to most public places.
Gun rights advocates have criticized the fair for its policy, arguing that it infringes on their Second Amendment rights. However, fair officials have defended the policy as a necessary measure to ensure the safety of fairgoers.
In her ruling, Judge Holland emphasized the fair’s status as a private entity and stated that the state law in question does not apply to it. This decision is seen as a victory for the State Fair of Texas and a blow to Paxton’s efforts to block the fair’s gun policy.
The State Fair of Texas has not yet commented on the ruling, but it is likely to be welcomed by fair officials as they prepare for the upcoming fair season. Gun rights advocates, on the other hand, may be disappointed by the decision and continue to push for changes to the fair’s gun policy in the future.
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