REED BILL PROVIDES CLEAR FRAMEWORK FOR KENTUCKY STATE POLICE OFF-DUTY EMPLOYMENT

REED BILL PROVIDES CLEAR FRAMEWORK FOR 

KENTUCKY STATE POLICE

OFF-DUTY EMPLOYMENT 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Mar. 12, 2026) — Legislation sponsored by Sen. Aaron Reed, R-Shelbyville, which will establish clear policies for Kentucky State troopers’ off-duty employment, has successfully made it out of the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee.

Senate Bill (SB) 278 updates several sections of state law to require the commissioner of the Kentucky State Police to authorize certain types of law enforcement-related off-duty employment for troopers and to establish formal policies and procedures governing that work.

The bill directs the commissioner to create guidelines addressing officer conduct, the use of uniforms and equipment, and other operational standards when troopers are working in an off-duty capacity. 

Supporters say the measure ensures that off-duty work performed by state troopers remains professional, transparent and consistent across the agency while helping meet public safety needs in communities across the commonwealth.

Reed, a veteran United States Navy SEAL, said the legislation reinforces accountability while recognizing the valuable role trained law enforcement officers can play when providing security and other services outside their regular duties.

“Public safety professionals deserve clear guidelines that protect both the officers and the communities they serve,” Reed said. “This legislation ensures Kentucky State troopers who choose to work approved off-duty assignments can do so under consistent standards that maintain professionalism, transparency and trust with the public.”

The legislation clarifies that officers may use uniforms, equipment and motor vehicles when engaged in approved off-duty employment and directs agency leadership to establish comprehensive policies to ensure accountability and oversight.

Reed said the bill reflects a broader commitment to supporting Kentucky’s law enforcement officers while maintaining high standards of integrity and professionalism.

“Men and women who wear the badge dedicate their lives to protecting others,” Reed said. “This measure simply ensures we have clear rules in place that allow them to serve their communities both on and off duty in a responsible way.”