Texas AG threatens to sue Dallas over gun ban at State Fair

SUMMARY

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton threatened legal action against the City of Dallas over the State Fair of Texas's new policy banning open and concealed firearms at the upcoming event. Paxton argued that because the State Fair is held at Fair Park, which is owned by the City of Dallas, the event is subject to state laws that prevent licensed gun holders from being barred from government property. In a letter to Dallas’s interim city manager, Paxton reiterated that the State Fair's policy might imply that the city is unlawfully restricting access to licensed gun holders, violating Texas law. He warned that if the policy isn't reversed within 15 days, he would pursue legal action, seeking civil penalties of up to $1,500 per day for the duration of the ban. The organization maintains that it is a private entity and not governed by city regulations, emphasizing its commitment to safety with over 200 armed officers on duty during the event.