"COPY THAT:" SENATOR NUNN’S HALO
APPROVED IN THE STATE HOUSE
The bill will soon be delivered to the governor’s desk for consideration
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 25, 2026) — Senate Bill (SB) 104, known as the HALO Act, won approval in the state House of Representatives on Wednesday. Proposed and filed by Sen. Matt Nunn, R-Sadieville, this legislation would establish a 25-foot buffer zone, upon a request for more space, around first responders engaged in their official duties and clarify rules to minimize disruptions during emergency responses.
The bill also establishes penalties for repeated violations involving obstruction and harassment of first responders in critical situations. The bill applies to officers, firefighters, EMS personnel and other personnel. Essentially, it reduces risk while sustaining lawful public activity.
“First responders must act quickly in high-stress and dangerous environments,” said Nunn. “That is why it is necessary to ensure they can carry out their duties both efficiently and safely during an emergency situation. Creating clear distance boundaries and penalties deters unnecessary behavior. That means stronger public safety for everyone. I’m eager to see how the governor weighs in on this bill, and I hope he will choose to put pen to paper and show our dedicated first responders he understands the stresses and sacrifices of their jobs.”
The bill was presented in the House by Rep. Wade Williams, R-Madisonville.
"The HALO Act gives those on the front lines the space they need to do their jobs safely, while still respecting the public’s right to be present," Williams said. "As a former first responder, I’ve seen how quickly situations can turn dangerous. I appreciate Senator Nunn’s work on this and his commitment to both public safety and accountability."
A House revision to SB 104 was adopted; therefore, the bill will return to the Senate for concurrence before being delivered to the governor.
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BACKGROUND
The HALO Act does not prevent lawful observing or recording. After a verbal warning, individuals who impede, threaten or harass a first responder within the 25-foot zone would face escalating penalties ranging from a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense to a Class D felony for repeat violations.
Click here to access a video message from Nunn explaining the bill, and click here to view committee testimony beginning at the 18:35 timestamp.
Press interested in setting up an interview with Sen. Nunn should contact Dustin Isaacs by call or text at 502-682-2591 or by email at Dustin.Isaacs@kylegislature.gov.
Availability is limited and will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit Legislature.ky.gov to follow legislation filed during the ongoing 2026 Legislative Session.