FRANKFORT, KY (March 31, 2025)—The Senate strengthened House Bill (HB) 544 in the closing days of the 2025 Legislative Session, thanks to strong leadership from eastern Kentucky delegates. Key lawmakers — Sen. Phillip Wheeler of Pikeville, Sen. Brandon Smith of Hazard, Sen. Scott Madon of Pineville and Senate President Robert Stivers of Manchester — represent counties designated for individual assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The bill provides greater financial support for communities recovering from recent flooding.
HB 544 establishes the State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE) 4860 fund, providing direct financial assistance for disaster relief. The existing $45 million in the EKSAFE and WKSAFE funds is authorized to be transferred to the new fund, which is named after the federal disaster declaration code 4860.
In its original form from the House, the bill set clear eligibility criteria, specified allowable expenses, and, in some instances, required repayment to maintain accountability. It also required detailed reporting by the state budget director and the Department of Education to ensure transparency in how funds are used.
Thanks to Senate-led improvements, the bill doubles the available funding cap from $50 million to $100 million, which provides the executive branch immediate access to those funds. If additional funding is necessary, the General Assembly gavels back into session on Jan. 6, 2026, or is available at the call of a special session.
“With this bill, we’re making sure communities in crisis get the help they need—faster and with greater certainty,” said Senate Budget Chair Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights. “The Senate took a strong bill and made it even stronger, doubling the immediate resources available for flood recovery and future disasters. This is responsible governance, ensuring relief gets to where it’s needed while maintaining accountability. I want to give kudos to my colleagues from impacted areas for being so involved in this process.”
The governor signed HB 544 on Monday. It takes effect immediately, expediting support for counties hardest hit by flooding.
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