REED’S BILLS TO REHIRE EXPERIENCED TROOPERS, PROVIDE FOR OFF-DUTY EMPLOYMENT PASSES OUT OF HOUSE COMMITTEE
SB 102, SB 278, clear next legislature hurdle, will boost public safety and ease workforce shortages
FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 25, 2026)—Two bills sponsored by Sen. Aaron Reed, R-Shelbyville, passed out of the House Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection Committee Tuesday.
SB 102 will allow retired Kentucky State Police (KSP) troopers previously appointed to the Trooper R Class or Commercial Vehicle Enforcement R Class to return to duty, offering a practical solution to strengthen public safety and address statewide staffing shortages.
The other measure, SB 278, authorizes certain types of law enforcement-related off-duty employment for troopers and establishes formal policies and procedures governing that work.
Troopers will be able to use uniforms and equipment, when troopers are working in an off-duty capacity. The measure ensures off-duty work 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 both bills reinforce the valuable role trained troopers can play when returning to service after retirement or providing security and other services outside their regular duties.
“We’re strengthening public safety by expanding opportunities for retired troopers to continue serving their communities,” Reed said. “With SB 278, we’re establishing a clear, consistent standard for off-duty employment across the Kentucky State Police to ensure that work reflects the high expectations of those who wear the uniform.”
SB 278 clarifies that troopers 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.
To follow the progress of either of these bills and other legislative updates, visit Legislature.ky.gov.