Kentucky may consider legislation that would make parents responsible for their children's gun-related offenses.

In the upcoming year, Kentucky's legislature will consider a bill that holds parents accountable for their juvenile child committing a firearm-related crime.

Rep. Kim Banta, R-Erlanger, based her legislation on laws that make parents responsible for property crimes and car accidents.

In Kentucky, parents can be held responsible for up to $2,500 if their children vandalize property, and the guardian who signed a minor's driver's license application is also liable for any negligence or damage caused while driving.

In a Friday interview with Planet Chronicle Digital, Banta stated that the most crucial aspect is that he is not attempting to halt gun sales or implement gun control measures.

"Parents should be aware of their child's actions, whether they are driving a car or engaging in any other activity, and exercise caution."

Banta's bill holds parents/guardians liable for civil damages resulting from injuries caused by a person with a gun, due to their alleged negligence or willful misconduct.

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports that factors determining parental liability in cases involving minors with guns include whether the elder permitted the child to possess the firearm, was aware of past gun law violations, or believed the young person to be prone to violence.

In Kentucky, a recent dispute among 15-year-olds resulted in one boy shooting two others, allegedly due to a disagreement over drugs.

"A 15-year-old lacks the mental capacity to make quick decisions like adults, whether in anger or routine life, so a gun in their possession without supervision is a different situation than an adult with a gun," she stated.

According to Murray State University's NPR affiliate, foster parents would not be subject to the law.

If the bill is presented in January and makes it to a committee vote, it is likely to be sent to Gov. Andrew Beshear's desk for approval.

Beshear did not respond to Planet Chronicle Digital's request for comment by press time.

In Frankfort, the legislative chambers are controlled by Republican majorities, but Beshear is a Democrat.