Fairfax, Va. - The National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) is rallying support for Constitutional Carry legislation in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The NRA-backed legislation, H.B. 531, allows law-abiding individuals to carry their firearms in the manner that best suits their needs, such as under a jacket or in their purse, without first applying for a government-issued license. The bill was introduced into the Kentucky House of Representatives by State Representatives Hubert Collins (D-97) and Jody Richards (D-20).
“Concealed carry permit holders are among the safest groups of citizens in Kentucky and throughout the country,” said NRA Spokesman Lars Dalseide. “This is a long-awaited update to Kentucky’s current concealed-carry system that will make it easier for every law-abiding citizen of the Bluegrass State to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Open carry of a firearm is already legal in Kentucky. H.B. 531 expands that right by providing lawful Kentuckians with the freedom to carry their firearm in the manner each individual sees fit. More importantly, the legislation keeps the current permitting system in place so people with a permit can still enjoy the reciprocity agreements Kentucky has with other states.
The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration. A Senate version of H.B. 531 is expected to be introduced later this week.
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. More than five million members strong, NRA continues to uphold the Second Amendment and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services. Be sure to follow the NRA on Facebook at NRA on Facebook and Twitter @NRA.