As lawmakers prepare for the 2026 Regular Session, State Representative Jason Nemes of Louisville is working to help law enforcement agencies across the state address an increase in the use of small handgun conversion devices that are already illegal at the federal level. Nemes presented his proposal at the September 18 meeting of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary, where lawmakers talked at length about the devices – commonly called “switches” or “auto sears.”
According to Nemes, the bill is intended to close a dangerous gap created by the rapidly evolving, easily concealed modifications that can turn a common semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic weapon. The devices can be made using a 3D printer or purchased online for only $20, often from another country. They are often associated with Glock handguns, and Glock has submitted a letter of support for Nemes’s proposal.
“We’ve taken important steps to reduce violence in our communities, and that progress must not be erased by technology that converts semi-automatic firearms into machine guns,” Nemes said. “This legislation will make clear that these conversion devices are not only illegal across the nation, but under state law as well. This should give our local prosecutors and police the authority they need to hold traffickers and bad actors accountable.”
Nemes added that law enforcement officials in his community have brought the issue to him after the concerning rise in their appearance at crime scenes, including crimes involving juveniles.
“Let’s be clear, the real danger doesn’t lie in the weapons or the devices, but in those who wield them irresponsibly and with malice. The conversion devices multiply lethality and risk. They’ve been illegal at the federal level for decades for good reason,” added Nemes, who serves as House Majority Whip.
If passed, Kentucky would become the 28th state to make the devices illegal at the state-level, after Alabama and Tennessee passed the proposal earlier this year.
Machine guns and conversion devices have been strictly regulated under federal law since 1934. Civilians may legally own machine guns manufactured before 1986, but those firearms must be properly registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Any machine guns produced after that date, as well as conversion devices, are generally prohibited. Exceptions exist for licensed dealers and manufacturers supplying the military or law enforcement.
Nemes shared his plans to continue working on the measure and invited members and others to collaborate. He plans to file the bill when lawmakers convene the next session in early 2026.
--30--
Story cross-posted from the Lexington Times.
Comments
