The Kentucky Legislature did its part when it sent two strong pro-Second Amendment bills to Gov. Andy Beshear’s (D) desk for his signature. That’s where the laudable effort hit a snag, though it may be only temporary.
Beshear vetoed House Bills 312 and 78. The former would establish “provisional” concealed carry permits, authorized by the Kentucky State Police, for young adults aged 18 to 20.
The latter would block frivolous lawfare intended to cripple the weapons industry.
Odds are favorable for lawmakers to override both vetoes
Beshear justified wielding his veto pen by citing the tragic Old National Bank shooting in Louisville in 2023, during which a close friend was killed. The irony is that the suspected shooter in that attack was 25 and would not have been affected by HB 312.
Lawmakers will reconvene for the session’s last two days next week and have a golden opportunity to advance gun rights. The raw numbers reveal the likelihood of a veto override.
HB 312 sailed through the House 73-17 and the Senate 30-7. The lower chamber approved HB 78 75-17, and the Senate concurred 32-6.
Of course, Beshear claimed to be a staunch supporter of 2A rights
Beshear posted on social media that he supports gun rights, though his actions tell a far different tale. “While I believe in the Second Amendment, these pieces of legislation would allow minors under the age of 21 to carry concealed deadly weapons and protect firearm manufacturers and sellers from liability for gun violence.”
First, 18-to-20-year-olds are not minors.
Then there’s the issue of legal liability. The federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) already provides a shield for the industry from attacks from anti-gunners over actions by third parties.
The Legislature should quickly override the vetoes and take a stand for the Second Amendment.
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