Texas Supreme Court Upholds State Fair's Gun Ban Ahead of Opening Day

Despite Attorney General Ken Paxton's urgent request to overturn the ordinance just before the opening day of the State Fair of Texas, the Texas Supreme Court issued a ruling on Thursday night that upheld the prohibition on firearms at the SFA. 

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However, the court ruled in favor of the State Fair, a private nonprofit organization, and stated that it had the right to enforce its gun policy. 

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Paxton had contended that the prohibition violated state law, which prohibits government agencies from restricting guns. A similar decision was made by a Dallas County District Court in favor of the fair, which permits the prohibition to continue to be in effect. This ruling comes after that decision. Paxton clarified that he would proceed with his challenge against the previous ruling.

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Even though the City of Dallas has said it does not participate in the policy, Fair officials argue that gun prohibition is necessary to protect the general public. 

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The court made clear that its ruling does not reflect on the wisdom of the prohibition; instead, it has simply addressed the question of whether or not Texas law allows the State Fair to make the decision. 

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The prohibition on firearms will continue to cover the entirety of the event, which will begin on Friday.

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Regarding the State Fair of Texas's efforts to implement its security procedures, this verdict represents a significant legal victory for the organization.

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