Kentucky law allows 18- to 20-year-olds to carry concealed weapons starting Tuesday

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - A new Kentucky law takes effect Tuesday allowing 18- to 20-year-olds to apply for a provisional concealed carry license for the first time.

House Bill 312 expands concealed carry permits to that age group, but with restrictions. The provisional license is valid only in Kentucky and expires when the holder turns 21. Applicants must also complete required training before receiving the permit.

Supporter: permit holders are not criminals

Former law enforcement officer, Kevin Michalowski, supports the measure, saying it targets responsible gun owners.

“The people who get concealed carry permits are not the people who are committing crimes,” Michalowski said. “The people who are committing crimes don’t go out and get a permit and take training.”

Michalowski added, that completing the permit process is itself a sign of responsibility.

“I think that if somebody takes the time to get the training and the permit, they’re showing that they’re going to be responsible,” he said.

Governor vetoed the bill; legislature overrode

Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed the bill, arguing that Kentuckians under 21 are already barred from buying alcohol and tobacco and that concealed carry should be no different.

In his veto message, Beshear wrote, “Laws setting these minimum age limits are meant to protect our youth.” He also noted that federal law already restricts people under 21 from buying handguns.

The legislature overrode his veto 28 to 9. House Bill 312 takes effect Tuesday.