Yesterday, Governor Steve Beshear (D) signed into law NRA-backed Senate Bill 150. Sponsored by state Senator Brandon Smith (R-30), SB 150 is critical to your inherent right to self-defense as it eliminates several discriminatory and arbitrary provisions in Kentucky’s current concealed carry laws that may have prevented you from obtaining a Concealed Deadly Weapons License (CDWL). SB 150 passed in the Kentucky Senate by a 36-1 vote and in the state House of Representatives by a 90-6 vote. You can view the recorded votes here. SB 150's effective date will be determined by the Attorney General within 90 days of adjournment.
Specifically, SB 150 will make the following changes to Kentucky concealed carry laws:
- Repeals the residency requirement for CDWL applicants. Currently, one must be a Kentucky resident for at least six months before filing an application to obtain a CDWL.
- Removes the residency requirement for members of the Armed Forces of the United States who are assigned to a military post in Kentucky. Currently, a member of the Armed Forces must be assigned a post for six months or longer in order to file a CDWL application.
- Reduces the length of time from 90 days to 60 days that the Kentucky Department of State Police has to approve or deny an application for a CDWL.
Your calls and e-mails made a difference! Thank you to all NRA members who contacted your elected officials and to Governor Beshear in support of this important measure.