Kentucky lawmakers are putting two gun-related bills into effect after overriding Gov. Andy Beshear’s vetoes, a move that immediately changes both the legal landscape for gun-industry businesses and the permitting process for some young adults.
The Kentucky General Assembly voted April 14, 2026, to override vetoes of House Bill 78 and House Bill 312. With the overrides, the bills become law.
HB 78: Liability protections take effect immediately
HB 78 establishes state-level limits on certain civil lawsuits filed against firearm manufacturers, sellers, and trade associations. The law targets what it defines as “qualified civil liability actions” that attempt to hold gun businesses responsible for crimes committed by third parties using legally sold products.
Supporters of the measure said the bill includes an emergency clause, meaning the liability protections take effect as soon as the override is certified. In practice, that can reduce immediate legal exposure for gun businesses by strengthening defenses against specific categories of claims tied to third-party criminal misuse.
HB 312: Provisional concealed-carry licenses for ages 18–20
HB 312 authorizes the Kentucky State Police to issue provisional concealed-carry licenses to adults ages 18 to 20 who meet the state’s requirements. The law aligns the eligibility of 18–20-year-olds with the permitting process used for standard licenses, including background checks and required training.
For public safety and compliance, applicants and license holders should confirm current rules on where concealed carry is prohibited and follow all state and federal firearm laws. Federal law generally restricts federally licensed dealers from selling handguns to people under 21, which can affect how an 18–20-year-old may lawfully obtain a handgun.
The governor vetoed both measures, citing safety concerns, but the legislature’s override votes made the bills law.
