Kentucky lawmakers are putting two vetoed bills into effect after the General Assembly overrides Gov. Andy Beshear’s vetoes of House Bill 78 and House Bill 312.
HB 78 changes civil liability rules for parts of the firearms industry. The bill establishes protections for firearm manufacturers, sellers, and trade associations against certain “qualified civil liability actions” that seek to hold those businesses responsible for crimes committed by third parties using firearms. Supporters of the measure describe it as a response to lawsuits they view as attempts to impose costs on lawful businesses.
The override votes for HB 78 were 80–19 in the Kentucky House and 31–6 in the Senate. The bill includes an emergency clause, meaning the new liability protections take effect immediately upon certification of the override.
HB 312 expands eligibility for Kentucky concealed-carry licensing by directing the Kentucky State Police to issue provisional concealed carry licenses to adults ages 18 to 20 who meet the required standards. As described by supporters, the provisional license is intended to mirror the main permit process, including background checks, required training, and firearms proficiency.
The override votes for HB 312 were 81–18 in the House and 28–9 in the Senate.
For public-safety compliance, anyone seeking to carry under the provisional license must follow the same location restrictions that apply to other concealed-carry license holders under Kentucky law, including prohibited places such as schools and certain government buildings. In addition, federal law places age-based restrictions on purchasing handguns from federally licensed dealers for people under 21, so young adults who carry should ensure any firearm they possess was obtained through a lawful method.
The Governor said he vetoed HB 78 over concerns that it prioritized protections for gun businesses over safety, and vetoed HB 312 over concerns related to lowering the licensing age. With the veto overrides now certified, both measures become part of Kentucky law and take effect according to their provisions, including HB 78’s immediate implementation clause.