Bill > HB749

This bill establishes the Office of Public Defense within the Department of Kentucky State Police, headed by the Commissioner of State Police, to acquire and transfer machine guns to "qualified persons," defined as individuals eligible to possess firearms under state and federal law. The office will be responsible for issuing transfer certificates, maintaining records (which are confidential), and ensuring machine guns are transferred to eligible individuals after background checks. If a qualified person becomes ineligible to possess a firearm, they must return the machine gun within seven days. The bill also allows for the transfer of machine guns between qualified persons, with a fee for non-inheritance transfers, and establishes a "public defense fund" to cover operational costs. Importantly, the Commonwealth, the office, and its personnel are granted civil immunity for their actions related to the office's duties and are not liable for the actions of those who receive machine guns. The bill also amends existing laws to reflect the creation of this new office.

Military Affairs and Security

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb749.html