Yesterday, the Kansas House of Representatives passed House Bill 2578 (previously reported on here) by a 102-19 vote. It passed in the state Senate on Friday by a 37-2 vote. HB 2578 will now be sent to Governor Sam Brownback (R) for his expected signature.
Your NRA fully supports this comprehensive legislation and thanks members of the Kansas Legislature who voted in support of this important reform bill.
HB 2578, as passed, includes:
- An expansion of Kansas’ firearms preemption provisions to open carry and will prohibit municipalities from implementing local ordinances relating to the transportation of firearms. Whether you choose to carry concealed, open carry or carry a knife for self-defense, this bill would eliminate the complex patchwork of gun laws that arise from local regulations.
- A ban on the use of taxpayer funds for gun “buyback” programs. These programs are a waste of taxpayer dollars and have no proven impact on crime reduction. This bill would prohibit seized firearms not used in the commission of a felony from being destroyed by law enforcement agencies. These firearms, so long as they are in operable condition, would either be sold to a licensed gun dealer (FFL) or donated to hunter education programs. In addition, it would also mandate that if a firearm has been seized by law enforcement and the owner is acquitted of the charges or the charges are dropped, the firearm must be returned to the owner within thirty days.
- A prohibition on county, city or municipal employers from maintaining a database of employee permit holders, ensuring confidentiality.
- A “shall certify” requirement that a chief law enforcement officer (CLEO) sign off on an application to transfer an item regulated by the National Firearms Act, including short barreled rifles/shotguns and suppressors, within fifteen days, as long as the applicant is not prohibited by law from receiving the item.
If they voted for HB 2578, please contact your state Senator and Representative and thank them for supporting this important bill. Contact information for members of the state Legislature can be found here. To identify who represents you, please click here.
Please also contact Governor Brownback and politely ask him to sign HB 2578 into law. You can call him at (877) 579-6757 or e-mail him here.