Texas Slams the Door on Gun “Buyback” Schemes - #2A
El Paso Feels the Heat
Texas just gave taxpayer-funded gun “buyback” programs the boot, and cities like El Paso are scrambling to hold one last turn-in event before the new law takes effect.
Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 3053, blocking counties and cities from spending public money to collect firearms from citizens in exchange for gift cards. For gun rights advocates, it’s a clear victory against what many see as feel-good disarmament theater.
“They’ve not had any effect on reducing crime as far as gun crime in El Paso,” said El Paso Republican Party Chairman Michael Aboud. “If they want to reduce that, they should go after the violent criminals.”
For years, El Paso County offered up to $200 for rifles—including the dreaded “assault weapons” label politicians love to throw around. Now, Sheriff Oscar Ugarte says the new law “ties our hands” and plans one last buyback before the ban kicks in on September 1.
Symbolism Over Substance
Gun owners and researchers alike have long criticized buybacks for failing to address real crime. Studies show most of the guns collected are broken, outdated, or simply unwanted—while criminals keep the firearms they actually use.
Meanwhile, private buyers often show up at these events offering cash for valuable guns, saving them from destruction. In one 2023 El Paso event…