MEREDITH AND HEAVRIN APPLAUD FUNDING FOR NEW REGIONAL DRIVERS’ LICENSING OFFICES, PREPARE FOR REAL ID COMPLIANCE
FRANKFORT, KY. (May 14, 2024) – Sen. Stephen Meredith (R-Leitchfield) and Rep. Heavrin (R-Leitchfield) proudly announce the allocation of $6.3 million annually, secured through House Bill (HB) 265, the transportation operating budget. The allocated funds will facilitate the establishment and staffing of three new regional drivers’ licensing offices, scheduled to open later this year.
This investment is a result of close collaboration with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) officials, Transportation Committee Chairs Sen. Jimmy Higdon (R-Lebanon), and Rep. John Blanton, (R-Salyersville), and bipartisan support from House and Senate members. The primary aim is to ease the strain on existing facilities and improve accessibility for constituents across the commonwealth.
KYTC is anticipated to unveil the locations of the new offices later this summer, with one of them slated to serve the 5th Senate District, encompassing Breckinridge, Butler, Grayson, Meade, and Ohio Counties. These strategic placements aim to reduce wait times and travel distances for individuals seeking essential licensing services.
The federal REAL ID Act is set to be enforced starting May 7, 2025. This will require a REAL ID-compliant document for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities. Kentuckians can choose from a REAL ID driver’s license or other REAL ID-compliant documents such as a military ID or passport.
"This funding represents a significant investment in enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of driver's license services for Kentuckians,” said Meredith. “With the REAL ID deadline less than one year away, I am proud to have worked alongside my colleagues to secure these resources and address the growing demand for licensing facilities statewide."
Rep. Samara Heavrin (R-Leitchfield), a member of the House Transportation Committee, stated, "I commend our proactive approach in addressing the need for additional driver's licensing offices. This investment will significantly benefit our communities by reducing wait times and enhancing access to essential services."
Grayson County Judge/Executive Kevin Henderson emphasized the significance of local collaboration, saying, "The establishment of new regional driver's licensing offices will undoubtedly alleviate the burden on existing facilities and improve service delivery for our residents. We eagerly anticipate working closely with Senator Meredith, Rep. Heavrin, and other state officials to ensure the success of these initiatives."
State-issued REAL ID driving and identity credentials are obtainable in person at any driver licensing regional office operated by KYTC or at pop-up events locally at least twice a year.
More details on the new regional driver’s licensing offices will be available in the coming weeks.
Learn more about Kentucky REAL ID at www.drive.ky.gov/REALID
Information on HB 265, the Road Fund, and the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly can be found at www.Legislature.ky.gov.
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Sen. Stephen Meredith, R-Leitchfield, represents the 5th Senate District, encompassing Breckinridge, Butler, Grayson, Ohio, and Meade Counties. He serves as the chair of the Senate Health Services Committee and the Government Contract Review Committee. Additionally, Meredith serves as a member of the Senate Standing Committees on Education; Families and Children; and Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection.
For a high-resolution .jpeg of Meredith, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate105.jpg
