A judge in Dallas has ruled against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s attempt to block the implementation of a new gun ban at the State Fair of Texas. Dallas County District Judge Emily Tobolowsky denied the state’s request for a temporary injunction to prevent the ban from going into effect when the fair opens next week.
Last month, fair officials announced the ban in response to a shooting incident that occurred at the fair last year. The decision to ban guns at the event was criticized by Republican state lawmakers who have historically supported expanding gun rights in the state.
Attorney General Paxton, a Republican, had threatened legal action if the ban was not rescinded. When fair officials maintained their stance, Paxton filed a lawsuit against the State Fair of Texas and the City of Dallas, which owns Fair Park where the event takes place.
Paxton argued that the ban violated the rights of gun owners under Texas law, which generally permits individuals to carry handguns without a license, background check, or training. However, city and fair officials contended that the fair is a private nonprofit organization leasing the property from the city, and as such, has the discretion to decide whether firearms are allowed on the premises.
The State Fair of Texas, a longstanding event dating back to 1886, offers a variety of attractions including a Ferris wheel, midway games, and livestock shows. The fairgrounds host the annual football rivalry between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. One of the fair’s iconic symbols is Big Tex, a five-story tall cowboy figure that is beloved by attendees.
Last year’s shooting incident resulted in three injuries, prompting concerns about safety and security at the fair. Videos shared on social media captured chaotic scenes as people ran to safety during the incident. Despite the controversy surrounding the gun ban, the fair is set to proceed with the new restrictions in place when it opens its gates to the public.
