SENATE ADVANCES REED BILL SETTING STANDARDS FOR TROOPER OFF-DUTY WORK

SENATE ADVANCES REED BILL SETTING STANDARDS

 FOR TROOPER OFF-DUTY WORK

Bill will provide consistency, transparency while maintaining public trust

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 16, 2026) — Senate Bill (SB) 278, sponsored by Sen. Aaron Reed, R-Shelbyville, received final passage in the Senate today. The legislation establishes transparent statewide policies governing off-duty employment for Kentucky State Police troopers.

“Our public safety workers and the communities they serve deserve clear guidelines that protect both the trooper and the public,” Reed said. “Senate Bill 278 ensures approved off-duty work follows consistent standards that maintain professionalism, transparency, and trust with the public.”

SB 278 updates several sections of state law to require the KSP commissioner 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 will require 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.

The bill is praised for ensuring that off-duty work performed by state troopers remains consistent across the agency while helping meet public safety needs in communities across the commonwealth.

Reed, a veteran United States Navy SEAL whose father was a state trooper, said the legislation will help manage responsibility while also recognizing the crucial role trained troopers can play in providing security and other services beyond their regular duties.

SB 278 clarifies when troopers may use uniforms, equipment and motor vehicles when engaged in accepted off-duty employment. The bill also directs agency leadership to establish comprehensive policies to ensure accountability and oversight.

Reed said the legislation 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 bill simply ensures clear rules so they can serve their communities responsibly both on and off duty.”