House Bill 78, sponsored by State Rep. T.J. Roberts in Kentucky, seeks to extend federal protections for gun manufacturers and sellers to the state level by requiring plaintiffs to prove that a company or seller knowingly violated the law and directly caused harm before lawsuits can proceed. Supporters argue the bill safeguards Second Amendment rights and prevents frivolous lawsuits that unfairly target the gun industry for crimes committed by others.

However, the gun violence prevention group Brady opposes the bill, contending it denies victims access to justice and shields irresponsible manufacturers and sellers from accountability. Brady’s president, Kris Brown, argues the legislation prioritizes protecting the gun industry over public safety and punishes victims seeking to hold the industry responsible. The bill is currently awaiting a vote in the Kentucky House before moving to the Senate.