(Whether "
anyone can carry in their vehicle in a school parking lot in Texas or not, due to the fairly recent extension of the Castle Doctrine" is beyond the scope of this reply)
A school parking lot is not "JUST" controlled by the Federal gun free zone law, but also by the Texas "Weapon-Free School Zone" and the
Texas Education Code, in addition to the other applicable Texas Statutes/Codes. (inter alia, Texas Penal Code - Section 46.11. Penalty If Offense Committed Within Weapon-Free School Zone)
Note that while "
a license holder is not prohibited from having a concealed handgun in his or her vehicle in a school parking lot" (according to the DPS issued booklet, #LS-16, printed August 2008, pge 71);
Texas Penal Code Places weapons prohibited, 46:03 (a)(1) includes "grounds" as well as "premises" (building as defined by
Texas Penal Code 46:035) .... this applies if you exit your vehicle in a school parking lot concealed carrying,
unlicensed.
BUT :smile:
Texas Penal Code 46:035
Unlawful carrying .... by Licensee does NOT mention "grounds" but mentions "premesis"
Notice that "exhibit or
threatening to exhibit" in a school parking lot is a 3rd degree felony,
Texas Education Code, EDC Section 37.125
(on top of a Penal Code 42.01 Disorderly Conduct if actually displayed in a manner calculated to alarm)
Read this page on this link for even more clarification:
The educator's guide to Texas school law - Google Books
(Except may not be exactly correct regarding enhancement within 300 feet of a building, see : Penal Code § 46.11 (b) This section does not apply to an offense under Section 46.03(a)(1) Texas Penal Code - Section 46.11. Penalty If Offense Committed Within Weapon-Free School Zone - Texas Attorney Resources - Texas Laws
Anyway, "Premises" in the PENAL Code means a building or portion of a building but does NOT include driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, etc ... see Texas Penal Code 46:035 (f)(3)
So, personally, I'd keep it concealed and not outside of the vehicle while I drop kids off at school etc..
( I'm not a lawyer)