AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The Texas Senate is sending a message to gun makers across the country: the Lone Star State wants you.
The Senate gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a bill encouraging Gov. Rick Perry’s office to recruit gun manufacturers to Texas.
The bill by Sen. Craig Estes, a Wichita Falls Republican, says Perry can use incentives, including financial to entire gun makers to relocate. A few lawmakers said Perry already has that authority.
Estes said his bill sends tells gun makers that they are welcome in Texas, even as other states around the country are passing new gun control measures. Estes says those companies could bring good jobs and economic development to Texas.
The bill still needs a final vote, likely Wednesday, before going to the House.