"I call it exercising my right to choose who I instruct in how to use a dangerous weapon," he added.

 

But the state of Texas may disagree. The Department of Public Safety said in a statement that certified instructors of handgun training are required to comply with all applicable state and federal laws, and added: "Conduct by an instructor that denied service to individuals on the basis of race, ethnicity or religion would place that instructor's certification by the Department at risk of suspension or revocation."

 

The department has said it has begun an investigation.