If you regularly carry your gun with you while you run errands, you might not think twice about dropping by the bank with a gun. However, due to concerns about robberies, there may be some rules against carrying in a bank. The firearms education pros from Online LTC, a premier provider of CHL online classes, explain what you need to know about the laws governing carrying guns in banks.
Federal Law Pertaining to Carrying in a Bank
Since most banks are federally insured, many people assume they’re federal property like courthouses, where guns aren’t allowed. However, the reality is that there’s no federal law against carrying a gun in a bank. As long as you are legally allowed to open or conceal carry a weapon in your state, you can bring it with you into a bank. In Texas, people who have been dishonorably discharged from the military or been convicted of a felony, domestic violence, or drug use may not be allowed to take a gun in a bank or anywhere else.
Banks’ Right to Prevent Guns on Their Property
The lack of federal laws on carrying guns in banks doesn’t mean you automatically have the legal right to take a gun wherever you want. Banks are private property, so they have the right to determine who does or doesn’t bring guns into their buildings. In Texas, under Section 30.06 and 30.07, a bank must provide notice if they don’t want people to bring guns inside. This notice can be in the form of a verbal warning, a written notice, or a sign. Signs have to follow specific rules, such as being conspicuously displayed and written in both English and Spanish.
Consequences of Carrying in a Bank that Doesn’t Allow Guns
If you carry your gun in a bank that doesn’t allow guns, you’re essentially trespassing on that property. Ignoring posted signs or a request to leave counts as a Class C misdemeanor, which can be punishable by up to $200 in fines. Consequences are even worse if you ignore a bank’s clearly posted or stated gun rules and then continue to ignore an employee’s verbal request that you leave. This can be a Class A misdemeanor that’s punishable by up to 365 days in jail and $4,000 in fines.
How to Make Bank Employees More Comfortable with Guns
Before visiting a bank, it’s a good idea to learn about their gun rules so you can behave appropriately. If you’re allowed to take your gun in the bank, a few simple steps can help you avoid awkward misunderstandings. First of all, you should keep your gun holstered. Avoid tucking the gun haphazardly in your clothing, under a folder, or in anything else that makes you look like you’re trying to hide an unholstered weapon.
No matter where you’re choosing to carry a firearm, it’s essential to make sure you learn how to do it safely and follow the laws in your jurisdiction. Online Texas LTC is committed to providing the best firearms training possible. Whether you want to take a Texas LTC online course or you simply want to learn how to shoot and handle a gun safely, Online Texas LTC has what you need. Give us a call today at 512-675-2124.
