HOUSTON – If you use public transportation in Houston in the new year, you may notice something different.
Passengers will be allowed to openly carry holstered guns on METRO buses and light rails if they have a permit.
METRO officials created the new policy, because of the new Open Carry law going into effect across the state on Jan. 1, 2016.
The law will allow people with permits to carry handguns outside their clothes. Those already with concealed handgun licenses will need only renew their permits. Everyone else will need new training.
METRO Police Chief Vera Bumpers says light rail and bus operators are being trained not to ask passengers if they have a permit. If an operator or passenger notices someone acting suspicious, operators will have to call METRO Police.
"You can call and we will come out and the officer will then ask a person if they have a permit to openly carry. We will verify they have a license with their ID," said Bumpers.
The new policy also allows customers to openly carry holstered guns at the METRO RideStore. However, weapons will not be allowed in board meetings. People attending board meetings will be able to use gun lockers.
Several light rail passengers told KHOU 11 News they are concerned about people openly carrying weapons on public buses and trains.
"What I would tell them is to not be nervous or afraid about it. We have very little crime on our buses, and I don't expect that to change," said Bumpers.
Bumpers doesn't think there will be as many people openly carrying as some expect. However, she knows it will take time for passengers to get used to seeing people with guns on public transportation.
