SENATE PRESIDENT ROBERT STIVERS ON GENERAL FUND RECEIPTS EXCEEDING BUDGET ESTIMATES

July 14, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky (July 13, 2026) — The following is a statement from Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, regarding the Office of the State Budget Director’s final fiscal year 2026 revenue report, which shows Kentucky’s general fund revenues exceeded revised revenue projections while posting year-over-year growth.

"Kentucky's fiscal year-end report confirms what we've said all along: responsible budgeting, conservative tax policy and disciplined fiscal management are producing real results. Despite repeated claims that lowering the income tax would undermine our financial stability, Kentucky finished the year with revenues exceeding expectations, a balanced budget, historically strong reserves and taxpayers keeping more of what they earn.

“Good public policy should be judged by tangible outcomes, not sensational rhetoric or headlines. These results demonstrate that we don't have to choose between fiscal responsibility and economic growth. By maintaining spending discipline while allowing Kentuckians to keep more of their hard-earned money, we've built a stronger economy and a stronger commonwealth. We'll continue taking the long view because our responsibility is not simply to balance the next budget, but to leave Kentucky in a stronger position for the next generation.

“We accomplish that by remaining committed to policies that have consistently delivered results, even in the face of persistent, public criticism. It is particularly telling that some of the same voices who spent years opposing these reforms remain the first to claim credit for the success they originally insisted would never materialize.

“In the 2026 Legislative Session, the General Assembly had a constitutional obligation to write a responsible budget.. While many lawmakers never subscribed to the pessimism echoing from the executive branch when considering the great responsibility of budgeting and balancing precious taxpayer dollars, prudence isn't optional. It's an imperative. That is why lawmakers took a conservative approach.

"If it was not already proven multiple times over, tax relief for families is not jeopardizing our state’s finances as those who have opposed it would have them believe.

“Friday’s report should give Kentucky families confidence in their commonwealth’s future. We will continue to budget responsibly, protect taxpayers and make decisions based on fact and reason, not fear and political messaging. That approach has served the Bluegrass well, and it will continue guiding the Kentucky General Assembly.”

For the full release from Kentucky’s Office for Economic Analysis, go to the administration’s website here.

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources, including legislation enacted during the 2026 Legislative Session.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort in June to start the 2026 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2027 30-day session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, including Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As the Senate President, he is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. Stivers is also a member of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg/

LAWMAKERS SEEK ANSWERS AFTER BESHEAR ADMINISTRATION DECLINES TO TESTIFY

July 9, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 9, 2026) — Members of the Government Contract Review Committee on Wednesday pressed the Beshear administration for answers about the employment contract of former Kentucky Venues President and CEO David Beck after officials from the Finance and Administration Cabinet and the Kentucky State Fair Board declined the committee's request to testify.

Lawmakers added the item to the agenda after receiving conflicting information about Beck's departure and the administration's handling of his contract. They invited representatives from both agencies to explain the situation, but none appeared before the committee.

Sen. Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield, questioned the administration's decision not to participate.

"We're completely at a loss as to what's going on," he said. "We need some answers. We deserve some answers, and we're not getting any.

Meredith said the controversy has drawn widespread public attention and involves one of Kentucky's largest public institutions just weeks before the Kentucky State Fair opens. He also noted that the governor reconstituted the State Fair Board at a time when the Kentucky Supreme Court decision Beshear cited is not final and could still be subject to a motion to reconsider.

Rep. Mark Hart, R-Falmouth, said his primary concern centered on the administration's refusal to appear before a committee created by statute to provide legislative oversight.

"We're a statutorily established oversight committee," Hart said. "I've served under two governors, and I've never seen an administration refuse to come before this committee to explain a contract."

Hart moved to defer the agenda item until the committee's next meeting, saying the purpose was to give the administration another opportunity to answer lawmakers' questions.

"They could have come before us today and explained," Hart said. "Instead, they ignored us. This committee was established by statute. They don't have the right to simply ignore the legislature because they don't want to come talk to us."

Hart added that the committee would not have needed to revisit the matter in August had administration officials accepted Wednesday's invitation to testify.

The committee voted to defer the item until its August 11 meeting.

BACKGROUND

Wednesday's discussion followed last week's leadership changes at Kentucky Venues after Gov. Andy Beshear reconstituted the Kentucky State Fair Board following the Kentucky Supreme Court's decision in Beshear v. Coleman.

Initial reports indicated the newly constituted board removed Beck during a special meeting. Beck later told WDRB News that the governor summoned him to Frankfort before the meeting, told him he could either resign or be removed, and informed him his employment contract was no longer valid. Those public statements raised additional questions about the sequence of events surrounding his departure and prompted lawmakers to seek testimony from the administration.

Beck became president and CEO of Kentucky Venues in April 2018 after the State Fair Board selected him through a nationwide search and unanimously approved his hiring. That was more than three years before the General Assembly enacted House Bill 518 in 2021, the law at the center of the recent Kentucky Supreme Court case involving the composition and appointment authority of the State Fair Board. Beshear cited that ruling when he reconstituted the board.

Lawmakers have also questioned how the court's decision relates to Beck's employment, which predates House Bill 518 and originated under a different State Fair Board. They further questioned whether Beck's separation complied with KRS 247.130, the statute governing the employment of the State Fair Board's president and CEO, including provisions related to removal from the position.

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OPINION: EASTERN KENTUCKY IS SHOWING THE COUNTRY WHAT RURAL RENEWAL ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE

July 8, 2026

OPINION:

EASTERN KENTUCKY IS SHOWING THE COUNTRY WHAT RURAL RENEWAL ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE

By Robert Stivers and Heidi Heitkamp

For years, too much of the national conversation about rural America has focused on what has been lost. Factories closed. Coal jobs disappeared. Young people moved away.

As two leaders from different parts of rural America, one a former Democratic U.S. Senator from North Dakota, the other a Republican and President of the Kentucky State Senate, we know these challenges are real. But after spending two days traveling through communities across Eastern Kentucky with the Brookings-AEI Commission on U.S. Rural Prosperity, we came away convinced the country is still missing the bigger story. The commission, a bipartisan body examining policy solutions to rural economic decline, visited the region as part of a national series of field hearings on what is and isn't working in rural communities.

From Manchester using its heritage and swinging bridges to attract tourists, to downtown Hazard where artists and entrepreneurs are writing a new chapter for a town long defined by coal, Eastern Kentucky stands as an example of how rural America is not standing still.

Over two days, the commission heard from local leaders in housing, higher education, health care, and philanthropy, as well as job creators, local officials and nonprofit organizations. Despite differing perspectives, several key themes surfaced repeatedly: retaining talent, driving targeted economic investment, and confronting the substance use crisis to save lives and help people heal are key to changing the Eastern Kentucky landscape.

While these priorities may look like separate policy buckets, the strongest consensus centered on people, and the recognition that economic renewal is fundamentally tied to taking care of the residents who power these communities.

We see this reality playing out vividly across numerous counties, including Clay, Leslie, Harlan and Breathitt, among others, where outmigration has historically taken a toll as coal jobs vanished. For too long, a negative national narrative, the rise in substance use, and a lack of diversified employers left the region vulnerable.

Rather than accept decline, local leaders are intentionally mobilizing resources to reverse these dynamics through innovative nonprofit organizations. One example, is 1 Clay County (1CC), a nonprofit whose vision is to transform downtown Manchester into a hub of commerce, tourism and community life.

Moving a region forward requires a strategy that pairs infrastructure investment with a deep commitment to the health and safety of its people. On the economic side, this means securing millions of dollars in state funding, but the leaders at 1CC will also tell you that fixing utility lines and buildings only gets you halfway there, you also have to invest in the people who will actually sustain it. In Eastern Kentucky, addressing substance use disorder is a critical pillar of workforce development. By confronting the trauma and intergenerational challenges of addiction head-on, communities can heal families while actively restoring and retaining their workforce.

Rural communities are not failing because of a lack of effort, but because systems built in Washington, D.C. fail to fit rural realities. True renewal happens when policymakers appropriate the necessary resources but remain hands-off enough to trust local leaders to design and execute the projects that fit their unique needs.

Eastern Kentucky is proving something important to the rest of the country: renewal is possible when communities have the leadership, institutional support, and flexibility to shape their own future.

It is a lesson the Brookings-AEI Commission on U.S. Rural Prosperity intends to carry to policymakers in the nation’s capital and beyond.

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Heidi Heitkamp represented North Dakota in the U.S. Senate and serves as co-chair of the Brookings-AEI Commission on U.S. Rural Prosperity.

Robert Stivers is President of the Kentucky State Senate and accompanied the commission on their visit.

JUDICIAL BRANCH REORGANIZATION SHIFTS RESOURCES TO FRONTLINE SERVICES, PRESERVES SPECIALTY COURTS

July 7, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 7, 2026) — Representatives from the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) told lawmakers recently that Kentucky's judicial branch is implementing a statewide reorganization. The plan is to reduce administrative overhead, strengthen frontline services and preserve core court operations under the budget enacted earlier this year.

Appearing before the Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary, co-chaired by Sen. Shelley Funke Frommeyer on July 1, AOC officials described a restructuring proposal that shifts resources away from bureaucratic central-office positions and toward direct services, while generating an estimated $3 million in general fund savings. Officials emphasized that the goal is to improve operations without affecting core court functions or other important services offered.

"Our focus had to be where we have some discretion around these programs, but also where we could achieve meaningful savings," AOC Director Zach Ramsey told the committee. He said the reorganization will "enhance our frontline services within those programs and create other efficiencies that we think are actually going to make these programs operate more efficiently in the future."

According to AOC, the reorganization reduces leadership positions within the Office of Statewide Programs from 12 percent of the workforce to 6 percent, while increasing frontline support positions from 4 percent to 6 percent and frontline operational positions from 84 percent to 88 percent. The restructuring eliminates 170 positions, primarily middle-management roles, but creates 109 new positions to support a regional service delivery model and strengthen frontline operations. It has already resulted in 110 employees being offered or accepting new positions.

Committee members also revisited concerns raised earlier this year about specialty courts.

During the 2026 Legislative Session discussion of House Bill (HB) 504, Kentucky's judicial branch expressed concern about specialty courts and argued they faced elimination and that "significant layoffs" would be necessary under the enacted budget.

During the meeting, AOC officials reported that specialty court programs are continuing to operate.

Officials testified that state-funded treatment court contracts have been eliminated, but treatment services themselves are continuing through Medicaid and other existing healthcare resources. They said the agency is also working with community mental health centers and other partners to identify additional support for participants who may not qualify for Medicaid.

Drug testing also will continue, with AOC working alongside judges, prosecutors and defense attorneys to reduce costs while maintaining nationally recognized best practices and protecting public safety.

The committee also heard details of additional operational improvements affecting Family and Juvenile Services and Pretrial Services.

Officials testified that AOC will establish dedicated second-and third-shift court-designated worker positions to provide more consistent overnight and weekend coverage, reduce burdensome on-call schedules, and improve responsiveness to judges and court partners. The agency also plans to cross-train pretrial staff to provide judges with more complete and consistent information when making bail determinations.

When asked whether the previous anticipated outcome had been less significant than initially anticipated, Ramsey said, "It's not significant. We don't anticipate that it will be."

Likewise, when committee members asked if any specialty courts had been eliminated, officials responded that "the programs were not eliminated," explaining that staffing had been reduced in some areas and treatment contracts restructured while services continue.

HB 504 increased overall funding for the judicial branch while directing that constitutional court functions be prioritized. Legislative budget documents also noted that the budget does not mandate layoffs or the elimination of specialty courts, leaving operational decisions to the judicial branch to prioritize and improve efficiency to best support its constitutional responsibilities and functions.

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources, including legislation enacted during the 2026 Legislative Session.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort in June to start the 2026 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2027 30-day session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

WILLIAMS, FISTER CELEBRATE FEDERAL FUNDING FOR FRANKFORT'S SINGING BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

July 7, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 7, 2026) — Sen. Gex Williams, R-Verona, and Rep. Dan Fister, R-Versailles, are celebrating the announcement of a $24 million federal grant to support the replacement of Frankfort's historic Singing Bridge. The funds are another major step toward replacing one of Frankfort's most recognizable landmarks and restoring an important connection between downtown, South Frankfort and Kentucky's Capitol.

Congressman James Comer announced recently that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $24 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant for the project. In a Monday news release, Comer said the project will improve a key transportation corridor, enhance safety and reliability, and preserve an important connection for residents, local businesses and the many visitors who travel to Frankfort.

“I appreciate the Trump Administration’s commitment to strengthening America’s infrastructure, and I will continue working with our local leaders to advance projects that improve our communities,” said Comer.

"The Singing Bridge has always been more than a bridge to the people of Frankfort," Williams said. "It's part of the city's identity and an important route for residents, state employees and visitors alike. We're grateful to Congressman Comer and our federal partners for helping secure this funding. The General Assembly showed its commitment by making this project a priority in the state budget, and today's announcement brings us another step closer to seeing construction begin."

Earlier this year, the Kentucky General Assembly approved more than $12.1 million in funding under House Bill 502 for right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation and other work needed to prepare for construction. Williams and Fister championed the funding as part of the 2026 Legislative Session.

The Singing Bridge has been closed since 2024, forcing motorists onto the Capital Avenue Bridge, also known as the War Mother’s Memorial Bridge, or longer routes around the Capitol campus. Replacing it will restore a direct connection between downtown and south Frankfort while providing a modern crossing for motorists and pedestrians, improving safety and supporting local businesses for decades to come.

"The closure of the Singing Bridge has affected commuters, businesses, state employees and visitors alike," said Fister. "Replacing it with a safe, modern structure will restore an important link and preserve the role this crossing has played in this community for generations. I appreciate Congressman Comer's leadership and persistence in advocating for this project and working with federal, state and local partners to make it a reality. This investment will strengthen our infrastructure, improve public safety and support Franklin County for decades to come."

Williams said the project reflects the importance of collaboration among local, state and federal partners.

"No single person gets a project like this across the finish line," he said. "It takes local officials, state lawmakers, our congressional delegation and transportation partners all pulling in the same direction. I'm thankful for everyone who stayed committed to this project. I know the people of Frankfort will be thrilled to see final construction and the official reopening of this historic bridge.”

The newly announced federal funding provides significant additional support for this critical infrastructure project and complements the state's earlier investment, helping ensure the resources are in place to move the project forward.

For more details, please visit the project's profile page on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 5 website.

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Sen. Gex “jay” Williams, R-Verona, represents the 20th Senate District, including Carroll, Franklin, Gallatin, and Owen Counties, southern Boone County, and southwestern Kenton County. Williams is co-chair of the Investments in Information Technology Oversight Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Interim Joint Committees on Transportation; Education; Families and Children and Natural Resources and Energy.

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate120.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of Williams.

SENATOR JULIE RAQUE ADAMS RECOGNIZED AS 2026 KENTUCKY CHAMBER MVP

June 24, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 3, 2026) — Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, has been recognized by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as an MVP of the 2026 General Assembly for her leadership advancing legislation aimed at expanding childcare access, supporting working families and strengthening Kentucky’s workforce.

The Kentucky Chamber specifically recognized Adams for carrying House Bill 6 and House Joint Resolution 50 on the Senate floor and helping lead passage of what the chamber described as a landmark childcare package. The measures reduce barriers to opening and operating childcare centers, strengthen accountability, expand options for working families and support Kentucky’s childcare workforce.

“Access to quality childcare affects nearly every aspect of our economy,” Adams said. “When parents can find reliable care for their children, they are better able to participate in the workforce, support their families and contribute to their communities. I’m honored to receive this recognition and am proud of the bipartisan work that helped move these important reforms forward.”

The Kentucky Chamber identified childcare as one of its top priorities entering the 2026 legislative session, citing workforce participation and economic competitiveness as key concerns for employers across the commonwealth.

Throughout the session, Adams continued her work on issues affecting Kentucky families, children and workforce participation. As chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Licensing and Occupations, she helped advance legislation addressing workforce needs while continuing her advocacy for policies that support working parents and strengthen opportunities for Kentucky families.

Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts praised Adams and other award recipients for helping advance policies that support economic growth and opportunity.

“Throughout the 2026 legislative session, these lawmakers demonstrated leadership in advancing policies that strengthen the commonwealth,” Watts said. “The Kentucky Chamber applauds their work to ensure businesses can grow, communities can thrive and more Kentuckians have the opportunity to succeed.”

The Kentucky Chamber annually recognizes legislators whose work helped advance the organization’s policy priorities and improve Kentucky’s business climate.

Read the full press release from the Kentucky Chamber HERE.

Learn more about bills, committees, and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.

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Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, represents Kentucky’s 36th Senate District in eastern Jefferson County. Adams chairs the Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee. She also serves as a member of the Senate Committees on Banking and Insurance, Health Services, and State and Local Government. Adams also serves as a member of the Administrative Regulations Review Subcommittee.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Sen. Raque Adams, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate136.jpg.

STATEMENT RELEASE

June 22, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 4, 2026) — On Thursday, President Donald J. Trump and the U.S. Department of Energy announced a federal initiative providing hundreds of millions in funding to support coal-fired power generation and coal export infrastructure across America, including projects in Kentucky. Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, issued the following statement regarding the announcement:

"Kentucky's economy depends on affordable and reliable energy. That's why the General Assembly has worked to protect critical baseload generation, support a long-term strategy through the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission and position ourselves to meet growing energy demands without sacrificing reliability.

"Coal remains a vital part of Kentucky's energy portfolio and supports thousands of jobs across our commonwealth. We welcome efforts to recognize and support coal's continued role in maintaining energy reliability and meeting growing energy needs.

"Kentucky will continue advocating for an all-of-the-above energy strategy prioritizing reliability, affordability and energy security."

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BACKGROUND

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, projects in Kentucky are selected for funding to support the modernization and long-term operation of existing coal-fired generation assets.

The federal initiative includes up to $425 million for projects supporting America's coal fleet and up to $75 million for development of the West Gateway Terminal Project in California, which would expand U.S. coal export capacity to allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region. The administration says the projects are intended to strengthen domestic coal supply chains, support reliable baseload generation and bolster America's energy security.

Additional information on the announcement is available through the U.S. Department of Energy. Find a list of projects at this link.

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Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, including Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As the Senate President, he is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. Stivers is also a member of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg/

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees and additional resources, including legislation enacted during the recently concluded 2026 Legislative Session.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort in June to start the 2026 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2027 30-day session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

KENTUCKY ENERGY PLANNING AND INVENTORY COMMISSION RELEASES FIRST STATEWIDE ANALYSIS OF DATA CENTER DEVELOPMENT

June 19, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 4, 2026) — The Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC) today released its first comprehensive policy analysis examining the opportunities and challenges associated with large-scale data center development across the Commonwealth.

The report, "Data Centers in Kentucky: Policy Analysis for the General Assembly," provides lawmakers, regulators, utilities, and stakeholders with an in-depth review of Kentucky's growing data center pipeline and identifies strategies to support economic development while maintaining reliable, affordable electricity for Kentucky families and businesses.

Commission leaders said the report demonstrates that Kentucky is uniquely positioned to compete for data center investment because of its low industrial electricity rates, available land, abundant water resources, growing fiber infrastructure, and proven record of supporting major economic development projects.

"Kentucky has an incredible opportunity before us," said Senate Majority Caucus Chair Robby Mills, R-Henderson, who sponsored the bill that created. "The growth of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, advanced manufacturing, and digital infrastructure is creating demand for new data centers across the country. EPIC’s report shows Kentucky is well-positioned to compete for those investments while ensuring existing ratepayers remain protected and our electric grid remains reliable."

The report notes that utilities across Kentucky are already seeing significant interest from data center developers. Some utility service territories have reported potential projects that could meet several gigawatts of future electricity demand and attract billions of dollars in prospective private investment.

Rather than waiting until large-scale development has already occurred, Mills said Kentucky is taking a proactive approach.

"Other states are now trying to solve challenges after years of rapid growth," Mills said. "Kentucky has the advantage of planning. By establishing clear expectations and strong policies before major infrastructure commitments are made, we can attract investment on terms that work for both developers and Kentucky consumers."

Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, said the report highlights Kentucky's long-standing competitive advantage in energy affordability while recognizing the need for thoughtful planning as electricity demand continues to grow.

"Affordable and reliable energy has been one of Kentucky's greatest economic development assets for generations," West said. "This report reinforces the importance of protecting that advantage while positioning our state to benefit from emerging industries that depend on large amounts of electricity. The goal is simple: welcome new investment, create jobs, and ensure existing customers are not left paying the bill for infrastructure built to serve private development."

The report examines experiences in states such as Virginia, Ohio, and Texas and identifies lessons Kentucky can apply as interest in data center development accelerates nationwide.

Jeff Brock, vice chair of EPIC, said Kentucky is well-positioned to compete for major economic development opportunities across the Commonwealth. He said the state can build on its strong energy foundation by leveraging existing assets and investing in the new generation needed to power future growth.

“Kentucky’s energy system has delivered reliable, affordable electricity for decades,” Brock said. “This report shows the Commonwealth already has many of the tools needed to support responsible growth. The priority now is to make sure investments in both existing and new generation benefit new large-load customers while continuing to protect affordable and reliable power for Kentucky families and businesses.”

EPIC Executive Director Eric King said the report represents the first in a series of policy analyses the commission plans to provide lawmakers as Kentucky's energy landscape evolves.

"One of EPIC's core responsibilities is providing independent, data-driven analysis to support informed decision-making," King said. "This report gives policymakers a detailed assessment of Kentucky's current position, identifies key questions for future consideration, and establishes a foundation for continued work on supply adequacy, infrastructure planning, demand forecasting, and economic development."

Among its findings, the report concludes that Kentucky's challenge is not whether data centers should locate in the Commonwealth, but how to integrate large new electricity demands in a manner that protects existing customers while supporting economic growth.

The report also highlights ongoing work by EPIC's technical committees examining demand forecasting, primary energy supply, transmission infrastructure, and long-term system reliability.

Established by the General Assembly in 2024, EPIC is charged with conducting statewide energy planning, maintaining Kentucky's energy inventory, evaluating supply adequacy, and providing independent analysis to policymakers on energy-related issues affecting the Commonwealth.

The full report is available through the Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission.

About EPIC

The Kentucky General Assembly created the Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission to provide independent analysis of Kentucky's energy resources, infrastructure, supply adequacy, and long-term planning needs. EPIC works with utilities, regulators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to support reliable, affordable, and secure energy for the Commonwealth.

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees and additional resources, including legislation enacted during the recently concluded 2026 Legislative Session.

Lawmakers return to Frankfort in June to start the 2026 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2027 30-day session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, represents the 4th Senate District, including Henderson, Hopkins, Union, and Webster Counties. He serves as Senate majority caucus chair and serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Families and Children; Health Services; Local Government; Natural Resources and Energy; and State Government. As a member of Senate majority leadership, he serves on the Legislative Research Commission.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Mills, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate104.jpg

Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, represents the 27th Senate District, including Bourbon, Fleming, Harrison, Mason, Nicholas, Robertson, and Rowan Counties and part of northern Fayette County. He serves as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committee on Education and the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee, which provides statutory oversight of state agency rulemaking. He is a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Education and also serves on the Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy. Additionally, he is a member of the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee. In 2024, he served on the Kentucky Housing Task Force.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of West, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate127.jpg

STIVERS TO RECEIVE MOTION PICTURE ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY CHAMPION AWARD

June 11, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 11, 2026) - Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Motion Picture Association (MPA) Industry Champion Award, recognizing his leadership in strengthening Kentucky's growing film and entertainment sector.

MPA Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin announced the honor, noting that the MPA Awards recognize leaders whose contributions strengthen the creative community and support policies that encourage growth and innovation.

“Our industry is strongest when stories catch fire, policies spur growth and creators can produce quality content for audiences to enjoy,” said Rivkin. “President Stivers plays a starring role behind the scenes in making Kentucky an attractive place for casts and crews to bring their magic to our screens–knowing that more production means more jobs and investment for local businesses and workers across the Bluegrass State.”

The award honors policymakers whose efforts have helped promote and protect the creative community while fostering economic growth through film and television production.

The MPA cited Stivers's leadership in advancing legislation designed to attract larger-scale film and television productions to Kentucky, including recently enacted measures that modernized the commonwealth's film incentive program and enhanced Kentucky's competitiveness as a destination for filmmakers.

"Kentucky has become an increasingly attractive place for filmmakers, producers and creative professionals, and this recognition reflects the collaborative work of many partners who have helped grow our entertainment industry," Stivers said. "Our investments in television and film production are creating opportunities for talented Kentuckians, supporting small businesses and generating economic activity in communities across the commonwealth. I am honored to receive this award and remain committed to ensuring Kentucky continues to be a place where creativity and innovation can thrive."

Under Stivers's leadership, the Kentucky General Assembly has prioritized policies aimed at expanding economic opportunities through the creative industries, recognizing the significant impact film and television production can have on local economies through job creation, tourism and business development.

"Kentucky's film and entertainment industry has tremendous potential, and President Stivers has been instrumental in helping position our state for future growth," said Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, primary sponsor of SB 1 in 2025 that created the Kentucky Film Office. "His leadership has helped create an environment where Kentucky can compete for major productions while showcasing our communities, workforce and unique landscapes to audiences around the world."

Stivers will receive the award later this year during the MPA Awards Ceremony at the organization's global headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“It’s an honor to receive a 2026 MPA Industry Champion Award,” said Stivers. “During my tenure as Senate president, our economy has made immense strides and put Kentucky on the map as a destination for production. We want to keep building a welcoming ecosystem for filmmakers whose projects benefit our talented crews, small business owners, and overall economic development.”

The MPA represents the world's leading producers and distributors of film, television and streaming content and advocates for policies that support the creative economy and intellectual property protections. They will make the actual award to Stivers later this fall.

The MPA serves as the leading voice and advocate of the motion picture, home video and television industries. It works in every corner of the globe to advance the creative industry, protect its members’ content across all screens, defend the creative and artistic freedoms of storytellers and support innovative distribution models that bring an expansion of viewing choices to audiences around the world. Its member studios are Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery.

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Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, including Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. As of January 1, Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As the Senate President, he is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. Stivers is also a member of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, membership, legislation, and more.

Access archived footage of legislative meetings and floor proceedings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for information on caucus members and to view press releases from our office.

KENTUCKY’S READING AND MATH GAINS SHOW EDUCATION REFORMS ARE PRODUCING RESULTS

May 21, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 21, 2026) — Senate Education Chair Steve West, R-Paris, says Kentucky’s national recognition for reading and mathematics growth reflects years of focused work by educators, school leaders and lawmakers to strengthen classroom instruction and improve student outcomes statewide.

A new Education Scorecard report produced by researchers at Harvard University, Stanford University and Dartmouth College ranked Kentucky fifth nationally in reading growth and eighth nationally in mathematics growth between 2022 and 2025.

The report also recognized several Kentucky school districts for exceptional academic progress, while Marion County Schools was highlighted nationally as a case study for evidence-based instruction, literacy training, instructional coaching and efforts to strengthen direct student-to-teacher engagement in the classroom.

“This recognition belongs to Kentucky teachers, principals, students and families who stayed committed to the hard work of improving classroom outcomes,” West said. “Kentucky made a decision several years ago to refocus on foundational learning, support educators and invest in proven instructional practices. We are now seeing measurable results from that work.”

The report specifically linked reading improvement in states, including Kentucky, to comprehensive science-of-reading reforms and evidence-based literacy instruction initiatives. Researchers also identified growing concerns nationally surrounding classroom distractions, social media use and declining student engagement. During the 2025 Legislative Session, Kentucky lawmakers approved legislation restricting student cellphone use during instructional time to help schools maintain more focused classroom learning environments.

During the 2022 Legislative Session, West championed the Read to Succeed Act to strengthen early literacy instruction across Kentucky schools through teacher training, literacy intervention and evidence-based reading practices. During the 2024 Legislative Session, lawmakers adopted a similar approach to mathematics instruction through House Bill 162, championed by Rep. James Tipton, R-Taylorsville, which established early intervention systems and additional student supports focused on foundational math skills.

In recent years, the General Assembly has paired those reforms with significant education investments, including $22 million for the Read to Succeed program, more than $10 million for the Mathematics Achievement Fund and additional funding to support school leadership development and classroom instruction statewide. The legislature also increased SEEK funding for the seventh consecutive biennium.

West said Kentucky’s recent education reforms have focused not only on improving student achievement, but also on strengthening instructional leadership and giving schools greater flexibility to support innovative classroom strategies.

During the 2026 Legislative Session, lawmakers approved Senate Bill 4 to establish a statewide leadership development framework for school principals and Senate Bill 263 to expand flexibility for schools pursuing innovative instructional models while maintaining accountability standards.

“Strong schools depend on strong classroom instruction and strong leadership,” West said. “The goal has never been a quick fix or a political talking point. The goal has been to help more Kentucky students learn to read proficiently, build strong math skills and graduate prepared for future success. This recognition shows Kentucky is making meaningful progress.”

The Education Scorecard findings are based on assessment data from roughly 35 million students nationwide and are part of a broader national research effort examining long-term academic trends and student performance.

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Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, represents the 27th Senate District, including Bourbon, Fleming, Harrison, Mason, Nicholas, Robertson, and Rowan Counties, and part of northern Fayette County. West serves as chair of the Senate Education Committee and co-chair of the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee. He is also a member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Natural Resources and Energy, and the Budget Review Subcommittee on Education. Additionally, West is a member of the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee and the Kentucky Housing Task Force.

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate127.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of West.

STATEMENT FROM SENATE PRESIDENT ROBERT STIVERS REGARDING JUDGE JULIE MUTH GOODMAN’S IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS

April 15, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 15, 2026) — Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, released the following statement after the committee meeting regarding the impeachment of Fayette Circuit Judge Julie Muth Goodman.

“As clearly established in the Constitution of Kentucky, the Kentucky Senate holds the sole authority to conduct impeachment proceedings in the commonwealth. That authority is exclusive, fundamental, and must remain free from interference. The April 6 opinion issued by the Kentucky Supreme Court represents an inappropriate encroachment on that constitutional responsibility.

“The Impeachment Committee convened today for the sole, limited purpose of receiving the articles of impeachment from the House and determining the next step. The committee made a determination that it was the best course to delay any further action.

“The Supreme Court has, in its order, made the Kentucky Senate aware of an investigation by the Judicial Conduct Commission. The Senate implores the Judicial Conduct Commission to conclude a comprehensive and prompt investigation and provide a report of its findings to the Kentucky General Assembly. At such time, it may be proper for the General Assembly to proceed further.

“Above all, the Senate remains committed to upholding the integrity of the Constitution of Kentucky and preserving the balance among our three independent, co-equal branches of government.”

FAYETTE COUNTY SENATE DELEGATION ANNOUNCES VARIOUS FUNDING AWARDS BENEFITING LEXINGTON, FAYETTE COUNTY

April 9, 2026

ONE-TIME TRANSFORMATIVE FUNDING SECURED FOR FAYETTE COUNTY
HB 900 allocates funding from Kentucky’s budget reserve trust fund to support one-time, transformative investments across the commonwealth, including the following major projects relevant to the entire bluegrass region.

Economic regional growth set to take flight
Twenty million dollars are allocated in the bill to support the Central Kentucky Business Park Authority, a strategic partnership between Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, Madison County, Scott County and the City of Berea to drive regional economic development along the Interstate 75 corridor—Kentucky’s most significant economic artery—to strengthen job creation, industrial growth and long-term competitiveness across the region.

Members also highlighted a $5 million statewide investment to support Kentucky tech start-up companies through the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority. These funds help provide early-stage capital to innovative businesses, supporting commercialization efforts and connecting entrepreneurs to resources across the state’s growing innovation ecosystem. In Lexington, that ecosystem includes organizations like Awesome Inc. and the University of Kentucky’s Advanced Science and Technology Commercialization Center which help launch and grow high-tech startups and position the region as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. This funding item was backed by Amanda Mays Bledsoe and Fayette delegates as well as Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise. R-Campbellsville, and Senate Economic Development, Tourism and Labor Committee Chair Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville.

A critical allocation of $19.98 million is being made to expand the terminal at Blue Grass Airport to increase capacity and improve the passenger experience. Additionally, the airport will benefit from $5 million in HB 900 to support the relocation of the air traffic control tower and other infrastructure.

“These projects in particular have received a lot of support, and I think the collaboration behind them has been really important,” said Bledsoe, R-Lexington, Senate Budget vice chair and member representing western Fayette County. “Kentucky itself is a regional hub for travel, manufacturing and so much more, so strengthening our airport has to remain a priority if we want to continue to see our city grow. I want to commend Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton and everyone involved in creating a three-county partnership focused on regional economic development, because while there are boundary lines that divide counties, our future success is uniquely linked.”

Sen. Matt Nunn, R-Sadieville, who represents a portion of northwestern Fayette County, has past private sector experience with Toyota Tsusho America. He spoke about how the Blue Grass Airport and county partnership are interconnected.
“You can’t look at the success of the partnership with Toyota here in Kentucky and say that happens without an airport like Blue Grass Airport and vice versa,” Nunn said. “I don’t think the demand for more investment in Blue Grass Airport is the same without manufacturing powerhouses like Toyota. When I look at this partnership between Scott County, which I represent, and Fayette and Madison counties, I think you’re seeing a prime opportunity for additional investments similar to Toyota's. I can’t commend Scott County Judge/Executive Joe Pat Covington and all the leaders in Scott County enough for the yeoman's work they’ve done alongside Mayor Gorton and Madison County officials.”

Additional Fayette County projects include the following

$3 million to support Goodwill Kentucky’s expansion to a second Fayette County location, strengthening workforce training and job placement services
$5.85 million to expand the Lexington Children’s Museum to enhance educational and community programming
$4 million to establish a state-of-the-art aerospace education center through the Aviation Museum of Kentucky
$4 million to support pediatric cancer research through the Pediatric Cancer Research Trust Fund
$2 million to advance Kentucky’s space economy through investments coordinated with Space Tango
$1.5 million to provide scholarships through the Ed Brown Society to expand educational opportunity
$1.5 million to support facility repairs and improvements at Lexington Children’s Theatre
$1 million support services for veterans through Kentucky Valor
$250,000 to support the Next Generation Workforce Development Project in Lexington

Building on housing successes

Lexington has placed a significant focus on addressing its growing affordable housing challenges amid a widening gap between supply and demand. In the 2024 one-time spending bill utilizing funds from the state’s budget reserve trust fund, lawmakers allocated $10 million in 2025 to support Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government’s transformational Housing Affordability Partnership. This investment comes as local leaders and advocacy groups warn that the city faces a shortfall of more than 22,000 housing units—a number projected to exceed 30,000 by 2030 without substantial policy changes and new construction. Rising demand has already driven rents up by nearly 50 percent in recent years, intensifying pressure on working families and underscoring the need for coordinated public investment.

Though not a direct allocation to Fayette County, lawmakers also committed $5 million over the next biennium to Kentucky’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund, a statewide program that provides critical financing for the development and preservation of affordable housing. The fund supports activities such as new construction, rehabilitation of existing units and assistance for low- and moderate-income households, helping communities across the commonwealth expand housing access and stabilize vulnerable populations. Together, these investments reflect a broader recognition at both the state and local levels that addressing housing affordability will require sustained funding, strategic planning and long-term collaboration.

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY AND INNOVATION INVESTMENTS

Lawmakers also highlighted significant investments supporting the University of Kentucky and its role as a leader in research, workforce development and innovation across the commonwealth.

The enacted budget includes substantial ongoing support for the University of Kentucky, totaling more than $9.2 billion in fiscal year 2027 and more than $10.1 billion in fiscal year 2028 across all funding sources. Within that funding, the General Assembly continues to invest in key programs including the Cooperative Extension Service, the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station, the Center for Applied Energy Research, the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging and the Kentucky Cancer Registry, among others.

In addition, lawmakers supported targeted research and health initiatives connected to the university including funding for cancer research and screening, spinal cord and head injury research and ovarian cancer screening programs. These investments support ongoing collaboration between the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville while expanding access to life-saving research and care.

HB 900 further strengthens these efforts by investing $4 million in the Pediatric Cancer Research Trust Fund to support expanded clinical trials and research at the University of Kentucky.

“The University of Kentucky is a real treasure in our state, but it’s also a premier university nationally in regard to its role as a provider of health care and research,” said Dr. Donald Douglas, R-Nicholasville, the state senator who represents the southwestern portion of Fayette County. “The work happening at UK is vital, and the findings and efforts taking place there are truly cutting-edge. I’m pleased by the continued investment by the legislature to support the university in the work it does better than anywhere else, and the General Assembly looks forward to continuing to partner with the university on future research projects.”

The budget also includes forward-looking policy initiatives designed to position Kentucky as a national leader in emerging industries. A Nuclear Reactor Site Readiness Pilot Program allows for up to $75 million in support for permitting and development of future nuclear energy projects, while a Kindergarten Readiness Performance-Based Child Care Incentive Pilot Program, administered through the University of Kentucky’s College of Education, supports early childhood development and school readiness.

Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, chair of the Senate Education Committee, emphasized the importance of these investments in advancing Kentucky’s leadership in innovation and workforce development.

“The University of Kentucky is at the forefront of preparing our workforce for the industries of the future,” West said. “Through efforts like the Nuclear Reactor Site Readiness Pilot Program and our work to expand nuclear energy education, we are positioning Kentucky to lead in next-generation energy production and advanced research. These investments build on the university’s strengths and ensure our students are prepared for high-demand, high-skill careers.”

West also pointed to Senate Concurrent Resolution 66, which encourages the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville to expand nuclear energy education programs and pursue federal partnerships through the United States Department of Energy.

“This is about making sure Kentucky is not just participating in the future of energy, but leading it,” West added. “We have the talent, the institutions and the momentum to compete nationally and globally. When I’m looking at what universities in other states are doing, I don’t see any reason why we can’t do the same. UK has been a great partner in Kentucky nuclear energy development efforts, and they will continue to play a big role in the future.”

Sen. Jared Carpenter, R-Berea who represents southern Fayette County, says the targeted investments in Fayette County align well with and work in tandem with road project funding secured in the state’s two-year road plan.

“A top-notch university and growing industrial parks don’t do any good if you don’t have the infrastructure to support them,” Carpenter says. “In this year’s budgets, especially in the responsible road plan we put together, I think we’ve done a good job making investments that have a return on investment and that aren’t money spent and money gone. We’ve put dollars into things that will churn in our community and in our economy, and that’s the way tax dollars should be invested.”

INVESTMENTS IN FAYETTE COUNTY INFRASTRUCTURE

US 25 (Georgetown Road Corridor)

$41.2 million to reconstruct and widen Georgetown Road from Spurr Road to Iron Works Pike. The project is to be completed in two phases from Kearney Road to Iron Works Pike and the second section from Kearney Road to Spurr Road. The project is supported with $36.2 million in high-growth county funding, general fund dollars provided by the General Assembly in 2024 for high-growth areas.

Interstate 64/75 Improvements

$15 million for construction to replace the I-75 southbound bridge and approaches from the northern I-64/75 split to Newton Pike Exit
$7.5 million to begin utilities relocation and construction on improving the interstate between Newtown Pike and the northern I-64/75 split
$4.207 million for rehabilitation and replacement of I-75 southbound bridge over North Broadway and North Limestone Street
$1.98 million for paving I-64 between mile points 71 to 74

New Circle Road (KY 4) Improvements

$6.82 million for right-of-way acquisition to reduce congestion on New Circle Road from Trade Center to the railroad bridge north of Palumbo Drive
$6.6 million to improve Liberty Road from Graftons Mill Lane to New Circle Road and improve intersection with New Circle Road
$4.67 million of state matching funds and federal grant funds to improve New Circle Rd between Boardwalk and Bryan Station Road
$2.48 million for design work to improve New Circle Road from Harrodsburg Road to Versailles Road

Additional priority projects in Fayette County

$14 million of state matching funds and federal grant funds to Replace RJ Corman Railroad Overpass and improve drainage on North Broadway (US 27).
$13.5 million from construction to improve the Red Mile Corridor between South Broadway and Versailles Road
$4.06 million for construction to extend Citation Boulevard from Russell Cave Road to Newtown Pike
$3.14 million for right-of-way and utilities work to address congestion and improve US 60 (Winchester Rd) from Polo Club Boulevard to Haley Road
$3.03 million for right-of-way and utilities work to improve Versailles Road from Viley Road to the west end of Norfolk Southern railroad bridge
$2.515 million in design funds to construct a new access road from Sir Barton Way to Polo Club Boulevard including a new underpass beneath I-75.

The plan also includes $223,000 through the Local Assistance Road Program to resurface Berea Road, a project identified as a priority by local officials.

Sen. Greg Elkins, R-Winchester, who represents Clark and Montgomery counties and a portion of eastern Fayette County, drew on his experience as a former Clark County magistrate to emphasize that investments in local roads are just as critical as large-scale infrastructure projects.

“When we secure tens of millions of dollars for major projects that improve traffic flow and safety on our interstates and highways, that’s a great thing,” Elkins said. “But I’ll tell you, what lawmakers hear about more than anything else is blacktop. That’s what we hear from our constituents, from county judges, mayors, magistrates and city leaders.”

Lawmakers noted that these types of investments are part of a broader commitment to local infrastructure, with significant funding directed to counties and cities to support resurfacing, bridge improvements and other critical transportation needs. Expanded support through the Local Assistance Road Program ensures that the most deteriorated roads are addressed, while direct funding gives local communities the flexibility to prioritize the projects that matter most to their residents.

“We have so many people who commute from surrounding counties into Fayette County and Lexington, so the investments we are making in surrounding counties like Clark, Bath and Menifee in my district are also investments in Fayette County,” Elkins added. “A rising tide lifts all ships and, and over the past two budgets we’ve done a whole lot to help Lexington and Fayette County rise up.”

DOWN THE ROAD
The state’s budget document outlining prioritized projects for the next four years after the biennium, House Joint Resolution 75, identifies a number of major long-term infrastructure priorities for Fayette County focused on congestion relief, safety improvements and capacity expansion along the region’s most heavily traveled corridors.

Key priorities include continued widening and modernization of U.S. Highway 25 between Lexington and Georgetown, long-term improvements to New Circle Road across multiple segments to reduce congestion and improve safety, and significant upgrades along U.S. Highway 27, including access management improvements along Nicholasville Road. The plan also prioritizes major investments along U.S. Highway 60, including widening, intersection improvements and multimodal upgrades along both the Winchester Road and Versailles Road corridors.

Additional projects include capacity improvements along I-75 and I-64, including bridge replacements and interchange upgrades as well as a series of targeted improvements to local connectors such as Man o’ War Boulevard, Tates Creek Road, Alumni Drive and Old Todds Road to improve traffic flow and support continued growth.

The plan further includes numerous bridge repair and replacement projects across Fayette County, along with smaller-scale safety, operational and multimodal improvements designed to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion throughout the region.

Collectively, these projects equate to hundreds of millions of dollars in anticipated future infrastructure investment, with individual projects ranging from early design and planning phases to major construction efforts exceeding $50 million. Lawmakers noted that inclusion in the six-year plan positions these projects for future funding as resources become available and reflects the continued growth and infrastructure needs of Fayette County.

BACKGROUND ON THE STATE ROAD PLAN
Kentucky’s next two-year road plan includes a $4.6 billion total for road, bridge and highway projects, along with a $7 billion transportation operating budget, ensuring that projects can move forward without delays or overpromising state resources.

The biennial road plan is fully funded with no overprogramming of state dollars so projects included in the plan can be completed within the budget cycle. Lawmakers noted that prior proposals eclipsed available funding by more than 400 percent, which created unrealistic expectations and delays. The final plan ensures that projects receiving funding are positioned to move forward as intended.

Kentucky continues to leverage approximately $1.1 billion annually in federal transportation funding, matched with state dollars, to maximize investment while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

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STATEMENT FROM SENATE PRESIDENT ROBERT STIVERS ON THE KENTUCKY SUPREME COURT OPINION REGARDING JUDGE JULIE MUTH GOODMAN’S PENDING IMPEACHMENT

April 8, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 8, 2026) — Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, released the following statement after the Kentucky Supreme Court’s April 6 opinion regarding Fayette Circuit Judge Julie Muth Goodman’s impending impeachment articles referred by the House of Representatives to the Senate.

“The Senate is aware of the opinion issued by the Kentucky Supreme Court and is carefully reviewing its implications.

“There have been longstanding concerns within the legal community about the conduct at issue, and I am encouraged that the judicial branch, per the opinion, is now taking a more active role in examining those concerns. That level of accountability is essential to maintaining public confidence in our courts.

“Over time, I have heard directly from attorneys who have expressed serious hesitation about filing formal complaints against judges. Many fear professional repercussions or believe doing so could negatively impact their ability to effectively represent their clients. That is a troubling dynamic, and it underscores why transparency and trust in the disciplinary process are so important.

“The Senate’s focus remains on carrying out its duties as outlined in the Constitution of Kentucky, that each branch of government operates with integrity and that concerns about judicial conduct can be raised and addressed without fear of retaliation."

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BACKGROUND

The 2026 Senate Impeachment Committee is scheduled to convene on April 16 to receive evidence and hear testimony in the impeachment case against Julie Muth Goodman, circuit judge for the 22nd Judicial Circuit in Fayette County.

The Kentucky House of Representatives issued articles of impeachment against Goodman on March 20. The articles allege that Goodman abused the powers of her office; defied binding precedents established by the highest courts of the commonwealth; defied statutes enacted by the general assembly; defied rules of the Kentucky Court of Justice; and interfered with the rights and powers of the grand jury, trial court jurors, attorneys, and others to perform their respective roles within the Kentucky Court of Justice.

The Senate, which will serve as the court of impeachment, has appointed a seven-member committee to receive and review the evidence and report its findings to the full Senate for a decision on whether to find Goodman guilty of the charges.

The Senate has allotted three days, April 16, 17 and 20, for the House prosecution to present the case against Goodman. Goodman will have three days on April 21, 22, and 23 to present her defense. The impeachment committee will present its findings to the full Senate on April 24. All dates are subject to change as determined by the Senate or committee.

The Kentucky Supreme Court issued an opinion and order against the Senate continuing with the proceedings on April 6.

According to the Constitution of Kentucky, the Kentucky General Assembly is the only body with the power to impeach elected officials. The Constitution of Kentucky may be found here.

RAWLINGS RESPONDS TO BESHEAR’S VETO OF SB 59

April 7, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 7, 2026) — In response to the governor’s veto of Senate Bill 59, Sen. Steve Rawlings, R-Burlington, issued the following statement:

“This veto misses the mark and misrepresents what Senate Bill 59 actually does. The bill does not silence anyone’s First Amendment rights; it reinforces a basic principle that taxpayer dollars should never be used for political advocacy. Public officials are free to speak, campaign and express their views, but they should not be doing so on the taxpayer’s dime.

“SB 59 simply puts enforcement behind a law that already exists. Right now, Kentucky prohibits the use of public funds to influence ballot questions, but without real consequences, that law has no teeth. This legislation ensures accountability when public resources are misused, while preserving the ability of individuals to speak in their personal capacity.

“Kentuckians expect their tax dollars to be used for legitimate public purposes not political campaigns. This bill protects that trust and keeps the focus where it belongs: on fair, transparent elections where voters, not government-funded messaging, decide the outcome.”

WISE HELPS SECURE $123 MILLION TO BOOST INFRASTRUCTURE ACROSS 16TH SENATE DISTRICT

April 6, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 6, 2026)—Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, has secured more than $123 million in road funding to improve infrastructure across the 16th Senate District as part of the state’s newly approved biennium road plan and local assistance programs.

The investment supports critical transportation upgrades in Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, Taylor and Warren counties. Projects focus on improving safety, reducing congestion and strengthening connectivity for families, businesses and economic development.

“We are bringing the resources need to help this region grow even stronger,” Wise said. “These are targeted investments to improve the roads people rely on every day while also looking ahead to all of our future potential.”

PROJECTS BY COUNTY

Adair County

Improve KY Highway 55 near Tom Andrews Road
Address flooding on Rice Drive and Watson Street in Columbia
Reconstruct KY Highway 61 from Columbia Bypass to the Green County line
Conduct planning study for the Eastern Columbia Bypass

Allen County

Reconstruct KY Highway 100 from Simpson County to east of Sulphur Fork Creek
Improve connectivity within Allen Springs Industrial Park
Improve KY Highway 100 near Stony Point Road to Alonzo Long Hollow Road

Metcalfe County

Develop the Summer Shade Bypass

Monroe County

Reconstruct or realign KY Highway 163 from the Tennessee state line to Tompkinsville Bypass

Taylor County

Improve safety on KY Highway 210 from Corinth Church to KY Highway 883
Extend KY Highway 3350, Campbellsville Bypass, to U.S. Highway 68
Reduce congestion and improve intersections along KY Highway 210 in Campbellsville

Warren County

Extend Three Springs Road from Flealand to the Natcher Parkway, including a new bridge
Widen U.S 31 West from the Warren-Simpson County line to Buchanon Park
Improve mobility and reduce congestion on U.S. Highway 31 West from Mizpah Road to Freeport Road

Funding is allocated through the biennium road plan and the Local Assistance Road Program. Together, these investments will support major reconstruction projects, safety improvements, congestion relief efforts and long-term planning studies.

Communities across the district will see improvements to key corridors, industrial access routes and local roads that serve as vital links for commerce and daily travel.

Wise said the projects reflect ongoing collaboration with local leaders, transportation officials and community stakeholders to prioritize the region’s most pressing infrastructure needs.

“Strong infrastructure makes economic growth possible and enhances safety on our roadways,” Wise said. “These projects will help ensure our region remains competitive and connected for years to come. It’s been a pleasure to work with Reps. Amy Neighbors, Sarge Pollock, Shawn McPherson and our Warren County delegates this session to bring so many great things to Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, Taylor and Warren Counties. ”

STATEMENT RELEASE CRITTENDON COUNTY SHERIFF DEPUTY COYLE SHOT IN THE LINE OF DUTY

April 3, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 3, 2026)—The following is a statement from Sen. Jason Howell, R-Murray, following a shooting on Thursday, April 2, where Crittenden County Sheriff’s Deputy Rick Coyle was critically injured.

“We should all join in thoughts and prayers for Crittenden County Sheriff’s Deputy Rick Coyle, who was critically injured in the line of duty last night. Every time our law enforcement puts on their uniform and takes to our roads, streets, and highways they put themselves at great personal risk.

“I applaud the quick reaction of the Kentucky State Police who were assisted at the scene by the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, Union County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police Department, Crittenden County EMS and Crittenden County Coroner’s Office.“

BACKGROUND

The preliminary Kentucky State Police investigation indicates that officers from the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office, along with staff from the Kentucky Department of Community Based Services, responded to 2807 KY-365 in Sturgis, Ky., to serve emergency guardianship paperwork. During the incident, gunfire was exchanged with the suspect, Ronnie Phillips, age 60, who was fatally wounded. Crittenden County Sheriff’s Deputy Rick Coyle was struck by gunfire from the suspect, airlifted to the hospital, and remains in critical condition at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. A female victim was safely removed from the residence. No other injuries were reported.

KSP was assisted at the scene by the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, Union County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Police Department, Crittenden County EMS and Crittenden County Coroner’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing.

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation, it is KSP’s standard operating procedure not to release specific details until vital witnesses have been interviewed and pertinent facts gathered. Timelines for completing investigations vary depending on the complexity of the case.

JOINT STATEMENT RELEASE SEN. ROBIN WEBB 'S SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO LAW

April 3, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 3, 2026) — On Good Friday, Sen. Robin Webb, R-Grayson, and Sen. Danny Carroll, R-Paducah, along with Rep. Patrick Flannery, R-Olive Hill, issued the following joint statement after the Governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 85 into law.

“Senate Bill 85 represents an important step forward for Kentucky families planning for the long-term care and financial security of loved ones with disabilities. By allowing special needs trusts to be used within our state-administered retirement systems, this law provides greater flexibility and protection for some of our most vulnerable citizens.

“For many families, ensuring that a child with special needs is cared for well into the future requires careful planning and thoughtful safeguards. This legislation helps remove barriers that have historically made that planning more difficult, while preserving access to critical benefits.

“We are proud to see this unifying measure become law, and on Good Friday no less, and we are grateful to our colleagues in the General Assembly, as well as the many advocates and families who shared their experiences and helped shape this policy. Their voices were instrumental in getting this across the finish line. We appreciate the governor taking the time to place his signature on this good piece of legislation.

“Ultimately, this law is about peace of mind and giving families the tools they need to protect their loved ones and plan with confidence for the years ahead.”

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SB 85 updates Kentucky’s public retirement statutes to recognize and allow the use of a special needs trust (SNT) across multiple state-administered retirement systems, including the State Police Retirement System, Kentucky Employees Retirement System, County Employees Retirement System, Teachers’ Retirement System and the Judicial Retirement Plan.

Webb is the primary sponsor of SB 85, and Carroll, chair of the Senate Families and Children Committee, signed on as the primary co-sponsor. Flannery carried the bill to final passage in the House.

STATEMENT RELEASE ADAMS CELEBRATES GOVERNOR'S APPROVAL OF MEASURE ESTABLISHING AN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER TRUST FUND

April 3, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 3, 2026) — Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, issued the following statement after Governor Andy Beshear signed Senate Bill (SB) 69 into law on Good Friday. The measure creates an Autism Spectrum Disorder Trust Fund to support evidence-based research, services and workforce development benefiting Kentuckians across the autism spectrum.

“Today marks an important step forward for Kentucky families and individuals affected by autism spectrum disorder. With autism now affecting one in 31 children, the need for stronger, more coordinated support has never been greater.

“Senate Bill 69 is about responding to that need and facilitating investment in better understanding, expanding support and helping ensure individuals on the autism spectrum have the opportunity to thrive at every stage of life.

“I’m grateful to the families, advocates and professionals who helped bring attention to this issue. Their voices matter, and I look forward to the benefit this new trust fund will have across the commonwealth.”

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The trust fund is established within the state treasurer’s office. The trust fund may receive appropriations, grants, and other public or private contributions. Funds are protected from lapsing, ensuring long-term investment and continuity of support. Resources will be distributed through a competitive grant process, guided by a comprehensive statewide needs assessment to prioritize areas of greatest impact.

SB 69 also creates a governing council, administratively attached to the Office of Autism within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, to oversee the distribution and use of funds. The council is required to develop a written plan for fund allocation by Oct. 1 each year and to update it annually.

The bill includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon filing with the Kentucky Secretary of State’s Office.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVES MADON MEASURE TO MODERNIZE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PRACTICE

April 1, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 1, 2026)—The General Assembly has given final approval to Senate Bill (SB) 116, legislation sponsored by Sen. Scott Madon, R-Pineville, that updates Kentucky law governing physician assistants and strengthens physician-led healthcare teams.

The House of Representatives passed the measure with House Floor Amendment 2, which made technical corrections and permits credentialed physician assistants to sign completed driver’s license vision testing forms. The Senate later concurred with the House changes, clearing the legislation for final passage and sending it to the governor for consideration.

SB 116 updates several statutes governing physician assistants (PAs) to help healthcare teams operate more efficiently while maintaining physician oversight. The legislation allows healthcare practices to determine a PA’s scope of practice based on the needs of the practice and the experience of the provider.

The bill also authorizes physician assistants to prescribe Schedule II controlled substances within the parameters of their collaboration agreement with a physician and permits credentialed PAs to perform driver’s license vision testing.

Madon said the legislation helps modernize healthcare delivery while preserving the physician-led team model that patients rely on.

“In many parts of Kentucky, especially in rural communities, access to healthcare providers remains a real challenge,” Madon said. “This legislation helps ensure physicians and physician assistants can work together effectively so patients receive timely, high-quality care while maintaining strong physician oversight.”

Rep. Robert Duvall, R-Bowling Green, who carried the measure in the House, said the bill improves efficiency for healthcare providers while maintaining important patient protections.

“Senate Bill 116 updates Kentucky law to give physician assistants more flexibility while maintaining physician oversight, allowing health care teams to operate more efficiently,” Duvall said. “By letting PAs sign driver’s licensing vision tests and tailoring their scope of practice to experience and patient needs, this legislation expands access to care and ensures patients receive timely services without sacrificing quality or safety.”

SB 116 establishes requirements for collaboration agreements between physician assistants and physicians and clarifies the services physician assistants may provide under Kentucky law.

The legislation does not create independent practice for physician assistants, does not limit a physician’s ability to define practice parameters, and does not allow physician assistants to bill patients independently.

SB 116 now awaits action by the governor.

Learn more about bills, committees and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.

SENS. BRANDON STORM, ADAMS HIGHLIGHT NEED FOR CERTAINTY IN JUSTICE WHILE APPROVING HOUSE BILL 422

April 1, 2026

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 1, 2026) — On Tuesday, the Senate approved House Bill (HB) 422, which strengthens and updates Kentucky law to strengthen parole ineligibility periods for certain serious offenses. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Dan Fister, R-Versailles, and was strengthened in the Senate by Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, who was inspired by the case of the 23-year-old Jordan Wells, who was shot and killed in 2024 while walking down the street near Dairy Kastle.

“The loss of Jordan Wells in Louisville is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact violent crime has on families and communities,” Storm said. “When lives are taken, there must be clarity and certainty in how our justice system responds. This legislation is about reinforcing that principle, ensuring accountability is consistent and that the law reflects the seriousness of these crimes.”

“As the Senate considered this bill, we focused on strengthening the framework around violent offenders, closing gaps and making sure the system works as intended. Families should not be left questioning outcomes or whether justice will be carried through. Our responsibility is to provide a system that is clear, consistent and worthy of public trust.”

HB 422, as amended by Senate Committee Substitute 1 and a Senate floor amendment, strengthens Kentucky’s criminal justice statutes and increases minimum parole ineligibility periods for certain serious offenses. It clarifies that mandatory reentry supervision does not apply to inmates who are ineligible for parole, those convicted of capital, Class A or Class B felonies or violent offenders denied discretionary parole. The legislation also revises standards related to criminal responsibility and ensures sentencing records clearly reflect parole eligibility, improving transparency for victims and the justice system.

Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, supported the measure.

“It’s devastating when young lives are taken in such violent manners, and for no reason whatsoever,” Adams said. “I was happy to support HB 422, and I will continue to support measures such as this to ensure justice for Kentucky families, especially those who endure the unimaginable loss of a child.”

HB 422 was also inspired by the 2015 killing of Logan Tipton in Woodford County. The bill was carried in the Senate by Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, who represents Woodford County and who spoke on the Tipton case and its impact on the victim’s family.

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SENS. BRANDON STORM, ADAMS HIGHLIGHT NEED FOR CERTAINTY IN JUSTICE WHILE APPROVING HOUSE BILL 422

Kentucky Senate Republican Majority Caucus, 700 Capital Avenue Frankfort, Ky 40601