Gun Control Debate Intensifies After Texas Mass Shooting

Despite the recent mass shootings in Texas, the Republican-controlled State Capitol has done little to reshape the political realities of gun regulation. While some Texans have become more open to gun control measures, the state has increased access to firearms, doing away with permit requirements to carry handguns and lowering the age when adults can carry handguns to 18 from 21. Governor Greg Abbott attended a vigil for the victims of the latest shooting but said there would be no new effort by his administration to limit access to firearms. A bill to raise the age to purchase an AR-15-style rifle to 21 from 18 has been introduced by Democrats but is not likely to pass out of committee.