MEREDITH SAFE ROOM REBATE BILL CLEARS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
SB 11 establishing a residential storm shelter rebate program heads to governor for final consideration
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 23, 2026)—Legislation sponsored by Sen. Stephen Meredith, R-Leitchfield, to help expand access to storm-safe shelters across Kentucky has cleared the General Assembly and is now headed to the governor’s desk for final consideration.
Senate Bill (SB) 11 establishes a residential safe room rebate program to help homeowners offset the cost of constructing or installing storm shelters that meet national safety standards and are made available to others in their community during severe weather emergencies.
Under the proposal, eligible homeowners may receive a rebate covering 50 percent of construction or installation costs, up to $5,000, for safe rooms that meet guidelines established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the International Code Council.
Meredith said the legislation aims to encourage preparedness and improve access to reliable shelter, particularly in rural areas where residents may live far from centralized community storm shelters.
“Severe weather has become a growing threat across Kentucky, and we have a responsibility to help communities prepare before disaster strikes,” said Meredith. “Senate Bill 11 gives homeowners an opportunity to invest in lifesaving protection while also making that shelter available to neighbors when it matters most. By encouraging preparedness and strengthening access to safe shelter, this legislation helps protect Kentucky families and build more resilient communities.”
The program would be administered by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and includes an application process, verification of safety standards, and a public listing of available residential safe rooms that can be used during weather emergencies.
Rep. Rebecca Raymer, R-Morgantown, who carried the bill in the House, said the legislation reflects a proactive approach to protecting Kentucky families.
“We’ve all seen how quickly severe weather can turn dangerous. Senate Bill 11 takes a proactive step to protect Kentuckians by increasing access to safe, reliable shelter and encouraging preparedness before the next storm arrives,” Raymer said. “I want to recognize Morgantown Mayor Billy Phelps for all of his work to bring this opportunity to our attention and appreciate Senator Meredith’s efforts to help families invest in safety while building a stronger, more resilient Kentucky.”
The legislation now awaits final consideration by the governor.
Learn more about bills, committees, and other important updates on the 2026 Regular Session at www.kylegislature.gov.