FRANKFORT, KY — A new bill making its way through the Kentucky legislature would allow adults aged 18 to 20 to obtain a provisional concealed carry license, marking a potential shift in the state’s approach to firearm regulations for young adults.
House Bill 312, sponsored by Rep. Savannah Maddox (R-Dry Ridge) and co-sponsored by Rep. Josh Bray (R-Mount Vernon), was approved by the House Judiciary Committee on January 21 with a 15-3 vote and is now headed to the full House for consideration.
Under the proposed legislation, the Kentucky State Police would be authorized to issue “provisional licenses” for concealed carry to individuals aged 18 to 20 who meet all current eligibility criteria under KRS 237.110, except for age. Applicants would still need to complete a background check and undergo firearms training to qualify.
A provisional license would remain valid until the license holder turns 21, at which point they could transition to a standard concealed carry license through a simplified application process without retaking the training. The provisional license would be distinguishable from the standard license and valid throughout the Commonwealth, except where restricted by state or federal law.
“Right now, in Kentucky, citizens who are 18, 19, or 20 years old can legally vote, join the military, and possess a firearm,” Maddox told the committee. “Yet, these same adults are prohibited from carrying that firearm concealed for self-defense.” She added that the bill seeks to expand the ability of law-abiding citizens to exercise their constitutional right to bear arms. [Source: Owensburrow Times]
If passed, Kentucky would join at least 25 other states that permit legal concealed carry for adults under 21.
Supporters of the bill have pointed out that the required firearms training adds an extra measure of safety, while critics have raised concerns about potential risks, especially involving suicide among young adults. Rep. Lindsey Burke (D-Lexington) voted against the bill, citing concerns over mental health and firearm access among college-aged individuals.
Maddox responded that the bill does not change who can possess a firearm—it only affects whether those individuals can carry one concealed.
The Department of Kentucky State Police would be tasked with managing the application and renewal process, including notifying provisional license holders of their license expiration 90 days in advance and providing an application to upgrade to a standard license.