The Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (CCRKBA) sharply criticized Andy Beshear after he vetoed House Bill 312, which would have allowed provisional concealed carry licenses for adults aged 18 to 20.
In a strongly worded statement, the group described the veto as a “deplorable act of sexism,” arguing it leaves young women more vulnerable to violent crime.
CCRKBA Chairman Alan Gottlieb said the decision prevents a specific group from accessing tools for self-defense. He accused Beshear of following “far-left dogma” despite portraying himself as a moderate Democrat. Gottlieb argued that denying these licenses disproportionately impacts young women, especially women of color, who he said may face greater risks.
He also referenced Eleanor Roosevelt, noting she was among the first women in New York to obtain a carry license, and suggested she would oppose the current stance.
Beyond gender concerns, Gottlieb accused opponents of showing “social bigotry” toward young Black and Latino men. He challenged the idea that individuals under 21 are too impulsive for Second Amendment rights, pointing out that they can legally serve in the military, enter contracts, and start families.
Gottlieb called the governor’s decision to deny concealed carry access “disgusting.”
The group also criticized the reasoning behind the veto, which has been linked in reports to Beshear’s personal connection to the Old National Bank shooting.
“The media is playing this veto up as a way Beshear honors a friend who was killed in the Old National Bank shooting in 2023,” Gottlieb said. “But that’s nonsense. The attacker in that case was 25 years old and left a manifesto. The governor is allowing the actions of one individual to influence policy affecting responsible young adults, especially young women.”
As the political response continues, CCRKBA is urging lawmakers in the Kentucky General Assembly to override the veto during their upcoming session. Gottlieb also criticized the governor’s outreach to younger voters, calling it a “façade.”
With the legislative session approaching, the debate over gun rights for young adults remains a key issue in Kentucky’s broader discussion on public safety and constitutional rights.
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