Texas AG Threatens to Sue Dallas Over Gun Ban

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a warning to the city of Dallas, threatening to sue if it does not compel the State Fair of Texas to reverse its newly implemented policy banning firearms at the fairgrounds. The ban, which allows only credentialed active and retired peace officers to carry guns, was announced following a shooting incident at the fair earlier this year that resulted in injuries. The State Fair leases Fair Park from the city for the duration of the event, which raises questions about the legality of the ban on government-owned property. In a letter to Dallas officials, Paxton emphasized that Texas law protects the rights of licensed gun owners to carry firearms on government property unless explicitly prohibited by state statute. He has given the city a 15-day deadline to address the issue. The State Fair of Texas has stated that it is prepared to cooperate with the city regarding the Attorney General's inquiries about the relationship between the fair and the city, as well as the lease agreement governing their use of Fair Park. The ban has sparked significant controversy, with 70 lawmakers recently urging the State Fair to reconsider its decision, arguing that trained citizens should have the right to defend themselves. Despite the pushback, the State Fair has maintained its stance, asserting that the policy is intended to foster a family-friendly environment. As the situation unfolds, both the city of Dallas and the Attorney General's office have yet to provide further comments, while the State Fair seeks to navigate the legal implications of the ongoing dispute.