Protection Detail Assigned To State Lawmaker And Family

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A Texas lawmaker has been provided security after his confrontation with gun rights activists led to panic buttons made available to House members.

The Austin American-Statesman (http://bit.ly/1CyreBq ) reported Tuesday that Rep. Poncho Nevarez (nuh-VAR'-ez) received threats. The Democrat from Eagle Pass says Department of Public Safety officers have been assigned to him and to his family at home.

DPS declined comment.

Nevarez opposes a bill that would let Texans carry handguns openly without a permit.

Nevarez on Jan. 13 had a heated exchange with members of a pro-gun group in his office. A video posted online shows Nevarez asking the people to leave and having trouble closing his door on the group.

The House the next day told DPS to make panic buttons, to summon help, available in legislative offices.