AUSTIN (NEXSTAR) – Firefighters and medics could soon respond to 911 calls in Texas armed with a handgun, under proposed legislation in the State House.
Lawmakers filed a few bills that would allow firefighters and Emergency Medical Services to carry a handgun while on duty, if they have a permit to do so.
Captain Rick Rutledge said Austin-Travis County EMS crews are often first to arrive on scene. “You never really know what you’re getting into,” Rutledge said, “There are certainly risks.” State Rep. Dan Flynn, R-Van, wants first responders, who are licensed to carry, to be able to do so on the job.
