State Rep. Trent Ashby of Lufkin took advantage of early bill filing by proposing legislation that, if enacted, would protect district attorneys, along with prosecutors, by enabling them to openly carry firearms for safety purposes.

Rep. Asby filed House Bill 278 on Nov. 12 saying the tragic murders of Kaufman County District Attorney Mike McClelland, his wife, Cynthia and Assistant DA Mark Hasse shook up the entire state.

He added, "It's our responsibility to ensure we take every measure possible to protect these brave men and women who, like our law enforcement officials, put themselves in harm's way by the very nature of the job."

Rep. Ashby also filed House Bill 277, which amends the Texas Penal Code in order to expand what constitutes capital murder by including the murder of prosecuting attorneys and/or assistant prosecuting attorneys in retaliation for those individuals performing the duties of their job.

Rep. Ashby said, "To me, there should be no question as to how important it is that these bills get passed; and I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and work to protect these men and women that do so much for our great state."

Ashby's House District 57 seat includes Angelina, Houston, Leon, Madison, Trinity and San Augustine Counties.