THE LATE SENATOR C.B. EMBRY JR., REP. BAM CARNEY AND WWII HERO AMONG INDIVIDUALS HONORED IN ROAD NAMING RESOLUTION

THE LATE SENATOR C.B. EMBRY JR., REP. BAM CARNEY AND WWII HERO AMONG INDIVIDUALS HONORED IN ROAD NAMING RESOLUTION

FRANKFORT, KY (April 3, 2023) – The Kentucky General Assembly enacted House Joint Resolution 7 (HJR) in the 2023 Legislative Session, which includes both House and Senate Joint Resolutions (SJR) honoring deceased Kentuckians who have served or have made a notable impression on the commonwealth.

Senator Steve Meredith's SJR 52 was included and designates US 231 from KY 70 at Aberdeen to the Ohio County Line in Butler County in honor of the late C.B. Embry Jr., who passed away last September after a long-fought battle with cancer.  He was 81 years old.

Embry was elected 12 times to five different public offices, including the mayor, county judge-executive and both chambers of the Kentucky General Assembly. He was a passionate advocate for veterans and education issues. The designation of the portion of US 231 from KY 70 at Aberdeen to the Ohio County line is a small token of appreciation and perpetual recognition of Embry's incredible legacy.

Within HJR 7 is a clarification that US Route 27X, which begins at the Nicholasville Bypass and becomes Main Street in downtown Nicholasville will be named the 'Senator Tom Buford Memorial Highway.' Senator Donald Douglas introduced Senate Resolution 139 in the 2022 Legislative session to honor the late Tom Buford, who passed away in July 2021.

The resolution also honors the late Rep. Bam Carney with the designation of a completed portion of the Campbellsville Bypass (KY 55) from KY 201 to KY 70—and upon completion—to US 68, in Taylor County in his honor. Carney passed away at 51 in July 2021 following a battle with pancreatitis.

Henry Ledford of Big Creek, Kentucky, a United States Army World War II veteran, was included in the resolution by Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester.

Ledford, one of the few remaining WWII veterans in America and one of the oldest veterans in Kentucky, passed on November 30, 2022, at 103 years old. Ledford served for the 11th Infantry Regiment and freed prisoners from a concentration camp near Landberg, Germany.

The resolution designates KY 66 from Clay/Leslie County line to US 421 in Clay County the 'Henry Ledford Memorial Highway.'

HJR 7 incorporated additional SJRs honoring many others, including:

• ·         SJR 5, sponsored by Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, honors Rep. Herman W. Ratliff. Ratliff served Taylor, Green, Metcalfe, and Marion Counties as a Kentucky State Representative for 19 years from 1968 to 1986 including three terms as Minority Caucus chair. He served in the United States Army during World War II, primarily in the Philippines, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Ratliff was recognized for his service with the Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal, the World War II Victory Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.

• ·         SJR 27, sponsored by Sen. John Schickel, R-Union, honors Charles Patrick, husband of the late Irene Patrick. Charles served as a Boone County Magistrate and member of the Hebron Church of Christ, the Masons and Shriners International. He was also the owner of Patrick's Auto Parts in Hebron.

• ·         SJR 89, sponsored by Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, honors Colonel Vermont Garrison. Garrison was assigned to the 4th Fighter Group, where he downed seven German planes earning him the title of Ace before being shot down and becoming a prisoner of war. He was one of only seven pilots to become an Ace in both World War II and the Korean War. Garrison also served in the Vietnam War as Vice Wing Commander of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing and earned the title of Triple Ace.

• SJR 94, sponsored by Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, honors Chief Petty Officer 3rd Class Virgil Mounts. Mounts was providing care for Army assault troops on Omaha Beach during the Invasion of Normandy when a shell exploded nearby, killing him instantly. Although listed as 18 years old in official military records, he was only 16 and is thought to be the youngest service member to be killed at the D-Day invasion.

• SJR 95, also sponsored by Wheeler, honors Sergeant Thomas Epling. Epling, a combat medic, was wounded on two occasions and awarded two Bronze Stars for bravery under fire, the Combat Medic Badge, a Unit Citation and the Korean Service Medal.

• SJR 99, also sponsored by Girdler, honors 1SGT Norman Richard Wells. Wells earned many awards and medals during his illustrious military career, including the World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Expert Rifleman's Badge.

• SJR 102, sponsored by Senator Brandon Storm, R-London, honors Officer Logan Medlock. Medlock was a London City Police Department Officer and was tragically killed in the line of duty when an impaired driver ran into the driver's side of his police cruiser.

• SJR 103, also sponsored by Storm, honors Officer Travis Hurley. Hurley was a twenty-one-year veteran and K-9 handler with the London City Police Department who retired in 2021 as a lieutenant.

Also within HJR 7 are clarifications, corrections and fixes to past road namings.

Finally, not having individual Senate Resolutions, but included in HJR 7 were:

Wheeler honors three Lawrence County Vietnam veterans:

·         KY 3398 From US 23 to KY 3 will be named the Jimmy Wayne Hardwick, Ellsworth Swann, and Charles Spencer Memorial Highway

Stivers honors Alvin Webb of Jackson County with a memorial bridge naming:

·         The bridge is located on KY 3630 at mile point 2.65

Senator Johnnie Turner, R-Harlan, honors Greg Page of Bell County:

·         A portion of KY 2129 will be the Greg Page Memorial Highway.

Click here to find HJR 7 in its entirety, including honorary bridge and road namings, supported by members of the Kentucky state House of Representatives. The measure was given final approval in the Senate on March 16 and was signed into law on March 21.

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the ongoing 2023 30-day Legislative Session, such as committee schedules and membership.

Live legislative coverage is available at ket.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. Access archived footage of 2022 Interim legislative meetings and 2023 Regular Session legislative activity at ket.org/legislature/archives.

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SENATE LEGISLATION WOULD ADDRESS TEACHER SHORTAGE IN KENTUCKY

SENATE LEGISLATION WOULD ADDRESS TEACHER SHORTAGE IN KENTUCKY

FRANKFORT, KY (February 15, 2023) – Yesterday, Senator Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, presented Senate Bill 49, a measure to help address the teacher shortage. The measure passed the Senate unanimously.

Newly elected Senator Deneen considers the bill his priority legislation for the 2023 30-day General Session. 

SB 49 will address workforce shortages and alternative teacher certifications under what is known as “Option 6” certification. This bill will extend the current program from three to five years. This legislative reform will benefit over 1,600 teachers currently enrolled in the program across our commonwealth.

Kentucky, like all states, faces a workforce shortage in various industries, and education is not immune. According to recent reporting by the Louisville Courier Journal using figures from the Kentucky Department of Education, the state is short approximately 1,700 classroom educators. This is vastly lower than the 11,000 figure oft-cited by Governor Andy Beshear but is nonetheless an issue Deneen and lawmakers are poised to address.

SB 49 will help alleviate the teacher shortage by extending how long a provisional teacher certificate lasts, providing more time for candidates with baccalaureate degrees to complete alternate teacher certification. For those with baccalaureate degrees who seek Alternative teacher certification through Options 6 and 7, this bill revises the provisional certification period from a maximum of three to five years.

“Before retiring, I spent most of my career as a public school educator and administrator, so this legislation is particularly important to me,” Deneen said. “We do not have a silver bullet to address this workforce shortage or all others. Nevertheless, I hope this bill will remove red tape for folks who are more than qualified through professional experience but may not have the traditional education background. This will give them more time to complete their certifications.”

SB 49 will now head to the House of Representatives for consideration. It carries an emergency designation, meaning it would go into effect upon filing with the Secretary of State’s Office. Find the bill in its entirety at Legislature.ky.gov.

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Senator Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, represents the 10th Senate District, including Hardin County and part of Jefferson County. He serves as the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee vice chair and is chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Education. Deneen is also a Senate Agriculture, Appropriations and Revenue, and Judiciary committee member. Additionally, he serves as a Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Statutory Committee member.

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate110.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of Deneen.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the ongoing 2023 30-day Legislative Session, such as committee schedules and membership.

Live legislative coverage is available at ket.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. Access archived footage of 2022 Interim legislative meetings and 2023 Regular Session legislative activity at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

SENATOR STEVE MEREDITH TAPPED AS COLON CANCER SCREENING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBER

SENATOR STEVE MEREDITH TAPPED AS COLON CANCER SCREENING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBER

FRANKFORT, KY (February 13, 2023) - Senate President Robert Stivers has named Senator Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield, to the Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention Advisory Committee. The Committee's purpose is to provide oversight and recommendations to the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program and report annually to the Kentucky General Assembly.

The Senate President and House Speaker appoint one member of each respective chamber to the committee for a four-year term. Additional members of the committee represent organizations and demographics most affected by colon cancer in the Commonwealth.

"When first made aware of a vacancy, I knew Steve was the person to represent our caucus on this Committee," Stivers said. "Before joining the senate, Steve spent decades as a healthcare executive, and his professional background will bring unparalleled insight and expertise."

The Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention committee was established by KRS 214.540-544 in 2008, focusing on giving uninsured and underinsured Kentuckians with individual incomes at or less than 300 percent of the poverty level. The goal of the program is to reduce colon cancer deaths through the prevention and early detection of colon cancer while identifying ways for Kentuckians to make access to high-quality colon cancer screening services, including colonoscopy, easier.

"I am truly honored and want to thank President Stivers for having the confidence in me to serve on this committee," Meredith said. "What initially led me to seek this office was to address healthcare needs in the commonwealth and a desire to identify ways to make our government agencies more efficient. Sadly, far too many Kentuckians are losing their lives to colon cancer, but I am confident that this committee will have a meaningful impact and can save lives". 

According to the CDC, Kentucky ranks as one of the top states for the highest per capita deaths from colon cancer.

In 2021 the General Assembly enacted Senate Bill 16. The measure updated Colon Cancer Screening Program with its fund and advisory committee to include "and Prevention" in the title. It required funds from selling special cancer prevention license plates to be directed to the program fund and used solely for colon cancer screening and prevention. The bill also updated the membership of the program's advisory committee and required the Department for Medicaid Services to present statistics on cancer services related to colorectal cancer annually and upon request.

Find more details on the Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention Advisory Committee by clicking HERE. The next committee meeting is scheduled for March 16th, 2023.

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Senator Stephen Meredith, R-Leitchfield, represents the 5th Senate District, including Breckinridge, Butler, Grayson, Ohio, and Meade Counties. He serves as Government Contract Review Committee chair. Additionally, He serves as the chair of the Health Services committee. Meredith is also be a Senate Education; Families and Children; and Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection committees.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Meredith, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate105.jpg.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the ongoing 2023 30-day Legislative Session, such as committee schedules and membership.

Live legislative coverage is available at ket.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. Access archived footage of 2022 Interim legislative meetings and 2023 Regular Session legislative activity at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

SENATOR BRANDON STORM ANNOUNCED AS NEW AVIATION CAUCUS SENATE CO-CHAIR

SENATOR BRANDON STORM ANNOUNCED AS NEW

 AVIATION CAUCUS SENATE CO-CHAIR

FRANKFORT, KY (February 2, 2023) - Senator Brandon Storm, R-London, has been appointed by Senate President Robert Stivers as the new Aerospace and Aviation Caucus Senate co-chair. He replaces former co-chair, Senator Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, with whom he serves as co-chair on the Senate Standing Committee on Transportation.

“As I was considering who to name as Jimmy’s successor to lead the Aviation Caucus, Brandon seemed like the most natural choice,” said Stivers. “He has an in-depth understanding of the London-Corbin Airport and how a regional airport impacts business and personal aircraft usage. Because of its location, this rapidly growing air hub serves most of the eastern portion of our state. Being the senator whose district it’s located in, I felt it necessary for him to be in this leadership position.”

The London-Corbin Airport is a regional hub for UPS and is located directly off of Interstate 75, making it the most efficient option for the distribution of air cargo throughout eastern Kentucky. The airport, with its 7,000-foot runway, has hosted Air Force One twice and is one of the busiest in the region for personal use aircraft.

“I am both honored and humbled to have been selected to succeed Senator Higdon as the Aviation Caucus co-chair,” Storm said. “He has been a patient mentor to me since I was first elected and has been a steadfast and vocal advocate for transportation and aviation in the commonwealth. Though I have big shoes to fill in taking on this role, it is a tremendous opportunity for which I am grateful.”

Each year during the legislative session, aviation experts and enthusiasts from around the state come to the Capitol to share Kentucky’s rich aviation and aerospace history, and the commonwealth’s prolific aviation industry. This year’s Kentucky Aerospace and Aviation Day will be in the Capitol Rotunda from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST Thursday, February 23.

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Senator Brandon J. Storm, R-London, represents the 21st Senate District, including Casey, Laurel, Lincoln and Rockcastle Counties. He is Legislative Oversight and Investigations Statutory Committee chair and Senate Transportation Committee vice chair. Storm is also a Senate Banking and Insurance; Economic Development, Tourism and Labor; State and Local Government; and Judiciary committee member. He recently served as a 2022 Interim Emergency Medical Services Task Force member.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY TO RECEIVE NEARLY $9 MILLION FOR LOCAL PROJECTS AND CAUSES

MCCRACKEN COUNTY TO RECEIVE NEARLY

$9 MILLION FOR LOCAL PROJECTS AND CAUSES 

Non-Profits, Water and Wastewater, Regional Airport And Local Tourism Among Beneficiaries

FRANKFORT, KY (January 30, 2023) – McCracken County is set to receive nearly $9 million in funding for various projects and causes. Awards announced on Friday include $1.5 million for local non-profit efforts, over $4 million for improvements to residents' water and wastewater services, approximately $600,000 to strengthen marketing efforts of Paducah tourism and over $1.75 million for improvements at Barkley Regional Airport

Non-Profit Assistance Fund to Provide Nearly $1.5 Million to Local Organizations

"I think empowering stakeholders, especially the dedicated non-profits who are mission-oriented in their respective causes, gives taxpayers the most bang for their buck," Senator Danny Carroll, R-Benton said. "The government should do what it can to address issues, but I think it's important to recognize government doesn't have all the answers and those who do are probably those individuals on the ground and out in communities. I'm incredibly optimistic about the good these deserving awards will bring."

Carroll and the Kentucky General Assembly utilized $75 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to establish the Non-Profit Assistance Fund, which qualifies non-profit organizations for up to $100,000 in grant funding. Recipients in Paducah include Child Watch Counseling and Advocacy Center Inc., the Family Service Society, Paducah Alliance of Neighbors, the Salvation Army of Paducah, Rape Victim Services Inc., several local parishes, the Paducah Symphony Orchestra and much more. 

Improvement Coming to Paducah Residents' Water and Wastewater Services

Paducah Water Works and the city and county Joint Sewer Agency will receive $4,123,045 in funding for various water and wastewater improvements.

"It's great to see more funding from the Kentucky General Assembly's investment of one-time federal funds make their way to Senate District 2—notably the additional $250 million allocated for cleaner water and wastewater improvement projects in the 2023-24 budget," Carroll said. "Like recent announcements in Marshall County, Paducah residents' wellbeing will be bettered by the improvements these funds will allow."

Carroll and the Kentucky General Assembly authorized the funding. It is distributed through the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA), which allocates funding to projects meeting the state's Cleaner Water Program grant criteria. Since 2021, the Kentucky General Assembly has allocated $500 million in one-time federal dollars for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the commonwealth.

Paducah/McCracken County Convention and Visitor's Bureau Awarded $595,297 Thanks to Senate's $75 Million Proposed Allocation in the 2023-24 State Budget

In light of the negative impacts of COVID-19 and government restrictions devastating Kentucky's tourism industry, the Senate championed appropriation of $75 million to Kentucky's Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. The governor did not include this funding in his budget proposal. It was first included in the Senate version, finally making it into the final version of House Bill 1, the 2023-24 biennial budget.

"Our tourism industry took a huge hit during the COVID-19 pandemic," Carroll said. "The Senate recognized the harm the industry endured and championed using some federal dollars to help the tourism industry recover. I trust the Paducah/McCracken County Convention and Visitor's Bureau will make the most of this funding and will do excellent work to help bolster local tourism efforts."

Paducah-McCracken Senior Citizen Project to Receive $1 Million

Funding for the Senior Citizen Project comes through federal Community Development Block Grants (CDBG).

"This grant funding doesn't get secured without the good work of city officials and the fine folks at the senior center," Carroll said. "I want to specifically recognize the efforts of former center director Christine Thompson for her work on this grant. The center does a great job of meeting the needs of senior citizens in our community by ensuring they have access to meals, activities and transportation. I appreciate DLG and all involved in making this grant funding possible."

According to the city, the Paducah-McCracken Senior Center provides meals for about 450 seniors through its Meals-on-Wheels program. It serves lunches on-site to 40 to 60 seniors daily. The center also provides activities and transportation services for older adults in the community.

CDBG funds are distributed through the Kentucky Department for Local Government (DLG). Per the office's website, the CDBG program assists communities in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their particular development priorities. According to DLG, $38 million is available for utility relief from the CDBG-CV program. Local governments may request up to $200,000 to provide utility relief to Kentuckians in their jurisdiction. The CDBG-CV program guidelines can be found here.

Barkley Regional Airport Sewer Extension Project Awarded $1,771,285

Funding to support the sewer extension project at Barkley Regional Airport comes from the Delta Regional Authority's Community Infrastructure Fund. The DRA strategically invests in helping improve the quality of life and boost economic development opportunities in the 252 counties DRA serves.

"The Delta Regional Authority's support and investments in west Kentucky's economic success is something we should all be grateful for," Carroll said. "Each of my counties in the 2nd Senate District falls within the DRA footprint, and Marshall County recently benefited from similar grant funding. I'm thrilled about this support in McCracken County."

The project will connect the airport terminal and 20 homes to the public sewer system.

Visit legislature.ky.gov for more information on Sen. Danny Carroll and to follow legislative activity during the 2023 Legislative Session.

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Senator Danny Carroll, R-Benton, represents the 2nd Senate District, including Ballard, Carlisle, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken Counties. He serves as Senate Families and Children Committee chair. He is also a Senate Education, Health Services and Judiciary committee member. Additionally, Carroll is a member of the Public Pension Oversight Board and the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee. For a high-resolution .jpeg of Carroll, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate102.jpg.

LAWMAKERS INVITE CHILDREN OF MILITARY FAMILIES TO PARTICIPATE IN ‘MILITARY KIDS DAY’

LAWMAKERS INVITE CHILDREN OF MILITARY FAMILIES

TO PARTICIPATE IN ‘MILITARY KIDS DAY’

FRANKFORT, KY (January 17, 2023) – Military Kids Day, the annual event hosted at the Kentucky State Capitol, is scheduled to return on Thursday, February 16. Lawmakers are encouraging families and children in their districts to participate.

Initiated by state Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, at the request of a military family living in his district, Military Kids Day is an annual event that allows military children to participate in the legislative process. Hosted by the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee, children are invited to go on a Capitol tour, page for their respective legislator, participate in a Capitol scavenger hunt and attend committee meetings related to military issues.

“Having children of military families join us in Frankfort to participate in the legislative process is always my favorite part of the legislative session,” Higdon said. “Last year’s event was a big success, and I am asking for everyone’s assistance in spreading the word so we can make this year’s Military Kids Day the best yet.”

Military Kids Day returned during the 2022 Legislative Session after two years of interruption because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Military Kids Day will begin at 9 a.m. Thursday, February 16, during a Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection Committee meeting chaired by Senator Rick Girdler, R-Somerset. State Representative Walker Thomas, R-Hopkinsville, serves as House Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection chair. Military kids will be recognized during the committee meeting in Capitol Annex room 131 and streamed live via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube Channel.

To participate, complete an application form available online at legislature.ky.gov or by clicking HERE. Submit that application to the Kentucky Senate Clerk Donna Holiday via email to Donna.Holiday@lrc.ky.gov by Monday, February 13.

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the ongoing 2023 30-day Legislative Session, such as committee schedules and membership.

Live legislative coverage is available at ket.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. Access archived footage of 2022 Interim legislative meetings and 2023 Regular Session legislative activity at ket.org/legislature/archives.

 

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

MARSHALL COUNTY TO RECEIVE NEARLY $12 MILLION FOR LOCAL PROJECTS

MARSHALL COUNTY TO RECEIVE NEARLY 

$12 MILLION FOR LOCAL PROJECTS  

Water and Wastewater, Economic Development  and Tourism Among Beneficiaries

FRANKFORT, KY (January 12, 2023) – Marshall County is set to receive nearly $12 million in federal grant funding for various projects throughout the county, including improvements to residents' water and wastewater services, traffic and access points at the industrial park, high school technical center and to strengthen the marketing efforts of local tourism.

Improvement Coming to Marshall County Residents' Water and Wastewater Services:

Calvert City

The city is awarded $300,379 to improve the city's existing water treatment plant pumping and control systems. The improvements will include the addition of variable frequency drives to the existing high-service pumps and actuator valve(s) and replacing the system PLC and HMI control systems. 

Calvert City is also awarded $180,400 for a project that includes replacing approximately 530 linear feet of existing cast iron water main with a history of breaks and low service levels near the city's water plant.  The proposed project will replace the crossing at Cypress Creek with a new HDPE water main.

Hardin

The city is awarded $480,000 for Phase three of its wastewater rehabilitation project.  Phases one and two were completed in 2007 and 2012.  These budget-driven projects addressed some mainline sewer issues and significant manhole rehabilitation. Phase III will continue those efforts.

North Marshall

The North Marshall Water District is awarded $480,779 for a project replacing approximately 2.8 miles of 3-inch, 4-inch, 6-inch and 8-inch water lines in an area damaged by December 2021 tornadoes. The project includes main replacement, service line and meter replacements of mains along Cambridge Shores Drive, Concord Drive, Paradise Point, Piedmont Street, Sunset Drive, Lakeshore Drive, Cape Fear Drive, Lexington Drive, Kentucky Avenue, and Woolridge Street.

"I'm thrilled to see the Kentucky General Assembly's investment of one-time federal funds finding their way to Marshall County—notably the additional $250 million allocated for cleaner water and wastewater improvement projects in the 2023-24 budget," state Senator Danny Carroll, R-Benton, said. "Calvert City, Hardin and North Marshall residents will see a notable improvement thanks to these awards."

Funding for water and wastewater improvements authorized by Carroll and the Kentucky General Assembly is distributed through the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA), which allocates funding to projects meeting the state's Cleaner Water Program grant criteria. Since 2021, the Kentucky General Assembly has allocated $500 million in one-time federal funds for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the commonwealth.

Fiscal Court Awarded $527,128 to Improve Industrial Park Access Points:

These funds come through the Delta Regional Authority's (DRA) States' Economic Development Assistance Program, which strategically invests in helping improve the quality of life and boost economic development opportunities in the 252 counties DRA serves.

"I appreciate the Delta Regional Authority's investment in west Kentucky's economic success," Carroll said. "Each of my counties in the 2nd Senate District falls within the footprint of the DRA's States' Economic Development Assistance Program. The significant funding awarded to improve infrastructure and access to our industrial park is welcomed wholeheartedly. Local officials have done a superb job working with the Department for Local Government, making a case for why this project deserves this award money. I truly appreciate everyone involved in making this project possible." 

Marshall County Tourist and Convention Commission Awarded $163,199 Thanks to Senate's $75 Million Proposed Allocation in the 2023-24 State Budget:

In light of the negative impacts of COVID-19 and government restrictions devastating Kentucky's tourism industry, the Senate championed appropriation of $75 million to Kentucky's Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. The governor did not include this funding in his budget proposal. It was first included in the Senate version, finally making it into the final version of House Bill 1, the 2023-24 biennial budget. 

"Kentucky's tourism industry took a significant hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Senate recognized the harm the industry endured and provided support for Kentucky's tourism industry," Carroll said. "I am pleased our Marshall County tourism commission will receive a share of those funds to help bolster our local efforts."

Marshall County Local Area Vocational Center Receiving $9,590,200 for Renovation Project:

Carroll and the Kentucky General Assembly provided historic state funding for Local Area Vocational Education Centers (LAVEC) in 2022. Marshall County's funding share comes from an allocation of $155.6 million in ARPA funds in the 2022-23 budget specifically for LAVEC renovations. 

"Since 2017, Kentucky has received significant outside economic investment and job creation, so we must continue addressing workforce challenges so that we can fill job openings," Carroll said. "Our local vocational schools are vital in preparing a skilled workforce. Renovations to the Marshall County High School Technical Center help achieve that goal."

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Senator Danny Carroll, R-Benton, represents the 2nd Senate District, including Ballard, Carlisle, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken Counties. He serves as Senate Families and Children Committee chair. He is also a Senate Education, Health Services and Judiciary committee member. Additionally, Carroll is a member of the Public Pension Oversight Board and the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee. For a high-resolution .jpeg of Carroll, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate102.jpg.

THAYER RECOGNIZED FOR THE SEVENTH TIME AS MVP FOR KENTUCKY BUSINESS COMMUNITY

THAYER RECOGNIZED FOR THE SEVENTH TIME

AS MVP FOR KENTUCKY BUSINESS COMMUNITY

FRANKFORT, KY (January 10, 2023) - Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, is a Kentucky Chamber of Commerce MVP award recipient for the seventh time.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce,” Thayer said. “It a great job as advocates for the business community, and I consider them a strong partner in our support of industries unique to the commonwealth. You can count on me to continue serving as a voice for Kentucky’s signature industries and small business owners. I look forward to continued work with the chamber as we seek to address workforce needs and expand on Kentucky’s many economic successes in recent years.”

Thayer played an instrumental role in ensuring the passage of top 2022 Chamber priorities, including further steps to eliminate the state income tax, unemployment insurance reform and the critical allocation of $250 million from Kentucky’s general fund to the biennial road plan, which qualified Kentucky and paved the way for historic federal grant awards for the completion of the Brent Spence Bridge Project. Additionally, Thayer is noted for his strong support of Kentucky’s tourism industry and signature horse and bourbon industries.

In addition, the Chamber reports the pro-growth policies supported and passed by Thayer and the Kentucky General Assembly saved Kentucky businesses an estimated $1.281 billion, roughly $19,000 for each employer in the commonwealth.

According to the Chamber, recipients of the Kentucky Chamber MVP Award show strong leadership for the business community by sponsoring or carrying Chamber priority legislation to final passage, showing leadership on the passage of critical legislation to improve Kentucky, or taking hard votes in defense of business.

“Leader Thayer has been a staunch advocate for the business community in the Capitol for as long as he has been in the legislature,” said Ashli Watts, Chamber president and CEO. “He is tied for the most MVP awards the Chamber has ever presented to a lawmaker. We are grateful for Senator Thayer’s partnership and thank him for his continued support for Kentucky businesses.”

Visit legislature.ky.gov for more information on Sen. Damon Thayer. Visit kychamber.com for details on the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. Click here to see more on the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s MVP award.

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Senator Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, represents the 17th Senate District, including Grant and Scott Counties, southern Kenton County, and northwestern Fayette County. He is Senate majority floor leader. Thayer is the longest-serving Republican Senate majority floor leader in Kentucky history. He serves as a member of the Senate committees on Agriculture, Licensing and Occupations, and State and Local Government. As Senate majority floor leader, Thayer is a member of the Legislative Research Commission, the Committee on Committees and the Rules Committee. Additionally, he is an Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee member.

THAYER RECOGNIZED FOR THE SEVENTH TIME AS MVP FOR KENTUCKY BUSINESS COMMUNITY

SENATOR DANNY CARROLL CHAIRS INAUGURAL SENATE FAMILIES AND CHILDREN COMMITTEE MEETING

FRANKFORT, KY (January 5, 2023) – The new Senate Standing Committee on Families and Children held its first meeting Wednesday, discussing plans to confront some of the commonwealth's most complicated challenges.

Sen. Danny Carroll, R-Benton, chairs the committee. The committee's scope includes family and children's issues, child welfare, adoptions, protective services, caregiver support, family preservation programs, senior citizen programs, and sexual assault programs.

"The efforts of this committee have my full and undivided attention in the 2023 Legislative Session," Carroll said. "I don't think it's a stretch to say this is the most important committee in the Kentucky General Assembly. No residents of this state are more precious than our most vulnerable. We can address societal challenges if we meet long-term goals such as strengthening the family unit and ensuring self-sufficiency."

Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Raque Adams serves as committee vice chair.

"I am thrilled to have Senator Adams as vice chair on this committee," Carroll said. "She has a heart and passion for Kentucky children. Her work last session on child welfare reform, Senate Bill 8, was among the best efforts to bring stakeholders together and identify necessary reforms I've seen in Frankfort. I trust the committee membership's intent and focus and know we will work well alongside other state partners." 

Carroll has previously served as co-chair of the Early Childhood Education Task Force during the 2022 Interim and was a Senate Health and Welfare Committee member. The Senate divided the Health and Welfare Committee into two new committees to provide opportunities for additional consideration of social service and health service issues. Those committees are the Families and Children Committee and the Health Services Committee.

On Wednesday, the Senate committee meeting included testimony from Eric Friedlander, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Friedlander praised the lawmakers for the change and said some issues were often overshadowed under the old structure.

Senator Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield, who serves as a Senate Families and Children committee member and recent co-chair of the 2022 Interim CHFS Organizational Structure Operations and Administration Task Force, reminded members of the task force's mission and legislative findings.

"We will have a bill this session that deals with the recommendations that came out of the task force and this committee is part of that," Meredith said. "(CHFS) is our largest cabinet; I think it has more than 7,500 employees. We are trying to do it better, more efficiently and responsibly for consumers. A well-functioning CHFS is incredibly important in the work of this committee."

Meredith added that he expects the task force to continue for two or three years, given the grand scope of the cabinet. You can find the 2022 Interim CHFS Task Force's findings and recommendations by clicking here.

In an emotional close to the meeting, Carroll took time to acknowledge the dedicated service of Dr. Ralph Alvarado, the long-serving chair of the Senate Health and Welfare committee. Alvarado recently announced he had accepted a position in Tennessee Governor Bill Lee's administration as health commissioner.

"Dr. Alvarado has become one of my very closest friends up here," Carroll said. "If I get emotional, I apologize, but his leadership will be missed here. No one in the Senate works harder than this man, and we've been together since day one. Dr. Alvarado and I had a lot of discussions about his decision, but he will be able to serve and positively impact a large population of Tennessee residents.

"Our senate caucus is going to be affected by not having his presence, energy and intellect," Carroll added. "He's one of those people who are in Frankfort for the right reasons."

Others commended Alvarado.

"Many times we are called politicians, and I say, 'No, we are public servants,'" Meredith said. "I don't know anybody who fits the role better than Sen. Alvarado. I will acknowledge I hate to lose anything to Tennessee. However, I feel like this is just temporary. He has left this state in a better position than he found it."

Secretary Friedlander said he appreciated the times Alvarado challenged the cabinet.

"It has been an honor to work with you," Friedlander said. "We have had a lot of deliberation back and forth, and Alvarado gave me confidence when I was on the precipice of decisions. I appreciate his support and when you've challenged me and the cabinet. I want to thank him for his great service."

Alvarado reiterated his reasoning for his decision to accept Gov. Lee's offer and then expounded on the importance of the Senate Families and Children committee.

"First of all, it's been my honor and privilege to serve," Alvarado said. "Serving on a health and welfare committee is difficult given some of the heavy topics and commitment of time required to dive into the issues. Part of the reason we now have two committees is to ensure we have enough time to face issues like child abuse and neglect and to address the elephant in the room, which is often Medicaid. I'm excited about the work this committee will do, and there is no better committee chair than Danny Carroll."

Other committee members include Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset; Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, R-Lexington; Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield; Sen. Whitney Westerfield, R-Crofton; Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville; and Sen. Denise Harper Angel, D-Louisville.

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Senator Danny Carroll, R-Benton, represents the 2nd Senate District, including Ballard, Carlisle, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken Counties. He serves as Senate Families and Children Committee chair. He is also a Senate Education, Health Services and Judiciary committee member. Additionally, Carroll is a member of the Public Pension Oversight Board and the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee. For a high-resolution .jpeg of Carroll, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate102.jpg.