SENATE BILL 20 PASSES SENATE WITH WIDESPREAD SUPPORT

SENATE BILL 20 PASSES SENATE 

WITH WIDESPREAD SUPPORT

Senate Bill 20 addresses the alarming rise in violent gun crimes involving youth

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 15, 2024) — Yesterday Senate Bill 20 passed on the Senate Floor with widespread support 25-9. Senator Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, introduced Senate Bill 20 following an alarming trend of rising youth violence involving firearms. 

“As a father and career educator, it pains me that legislation is needed to address the rampant gun violence being committed by youthful offenders,” aid Deneen. “In far too many instances, juveniles are taking the lives of other juveniles, which in turn is threatening the peace and security of our communities. This isn't just an urban issue, but a problem that is affecting our rural communities as well.” 

“Individuals who commit violent felonies need to be held accountable. Senate Bill 20 provides justice for the victims and their families by holding those responsible for these violent felonies accountable.” 

.If signed into law, Commonwealth and County Attorneys will be required when handling cases involving juvenile offenders over the age of 15 who have been charged with a felony involving a firearm, to hold a hearing to determine, based on the evidence of the accused, whether a transfer to circuit court is applicable. The Commonwealth and County Attorneys will also be provided prosecutorial discretion before and after transfer to circuit court, in the event they agree the case should be sent back to juvenile court.

Individuals who have been charged with a felony in which a firearm, whether functional or not, was used in the commission of the offense over the age of fifteen may be charged as a result. If transferred to circuit court, teens will then be classified as “youthful offenders” and can face the same penalties an adult would, including prison.

Youthful offenders convicted as adults will be confined in a facility or program for juveniles or for youthful offenders. Once turning 18, offenders will return to circuit court for new sentencing proceedings. 

Additionally, Senate Bill 20 requires that violent offenders who have been convicted of a Class C felony violation shall not be released on probation, shock probation, parole, conditional discharge, or any other form of early release until he or she has served at least 50 percent of their sentence.

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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 also serves as a member of the  Senate Agriculture, Appropriations and Revenue, and Judiciary Committees. Additionally, he serves as a member of the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee, 2024-2026 Budget Preparation & Submission Statutory Committee, and the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Statutory Committee.

TICHENOR INTRODUCES BILL TO PROVIDE MATERNITY LEAVE FOR TEACHERS

TICHENOR INTRODUCES BILL TO PROVIDE

MATERNITY LEAVE FOR TEACHERS

FRANKFORT, KY. (February 15, 2024) – Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, introduced legislation that would provide for 20 days of paid maternity leave for teachers and public school employees across Kentucky.

“I filed this bill, along with so many other bills specific to our public schools, because I have a heart for mothers who nurture our children and play key roles in our education system," Tichenor said. “They deserve to enjoy and savor that precious time when they bring a new baby into their family.”

The legislation is Senate Bill 205 (SB 205) and would provide any public school teacher or employee who gives birth paid leave without any salary deduction or reduction in accumulated sick leave for the first 20 days.

If signed into law, paid maternity days could be used before the teacher or employee uses any other leave. Any paid maternity days unused by the teacher or employee would not be transferred into sick leave and would expire upon return to work.

“We have to honor such a significant event in a teacher’s or school employee's life as the birth of their child,” said Tichenor. “This is a real benefit that I am proud to champion on behalf of every mother who supports our children in our public schools because educating our children is a labor of love, and I think this bill is much needed.”

The law currently allows a teacher or other school district employee to use up to 30 days of sick leave following the birth or adoption of a child or children. Additional days may also be used when a physician's statement verifies the need.

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Senator Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, represents the 6th Senate District, including Oldham and Trimble Counties and part of Jefferson County. She serves as a Senate Education; Families and Children; and Health Services Committee member. Tichenor is also a Budget Review Subcommittee on Human Resources Committee member.

NEMES MARSHALS SB 23 THROUGH THE SENATE

NEMES MARSHALS SB 23 THROUGH THE SENATE

Measure to be taken up in the House, could be on the November ballot

FRANKFORT, KY. (February 15, 2024) – Senator Michael J. Nemes, R-Shepherdsville, championed a measure that, if passed by the House, would relieve Kentucky residents older than 65 from an increase in their property taxes due to rising property values.  Senate Bill (SB) 23 passed out of the Senate on February 9 and would be on the ballot this November for ratification or rejection, contingent upon House approval.

“Older residents on a fixed income struggle as it is since they grapple with a fluctuating economy in the golden years,” said Nemes. “The fiscal impact to the state would be negligible but it may mean the difference in keeping the heat on or not for some of our elderly residents.”

The constitutional amendment would exempt homeowners age 65 and older from any increase in the value of their primary, permanent residence and real property contiguous to it.  This exemption would apply the year the owner turns 65 or the year the owner purchased the residence.

The constitutional amendment outlined in SB 23 would change Section 170 of the Constitution of Kentucky. If SB 23 passes both chambers, the actual language Kentucky residents would see on the ballot is:

Are you in favor of providing an additional ad valorem tax exemption for real property maintained as the permanent residence of an owner who is 65 years of age or older by amending the Constitution of Kentucky to read as stated below?

The legislature can place up to four proposed constitutional amendments on any ballot. All constitutional amendments must receive three-fifths support in both chambers of the Kentucky General Assembly and do not need approval from the Governor.

With a majority of voters' support, the constitutional amendment would be adopted and the constitution amended.

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Senator Mike Nemes, R-Shepherdsville, represents the 38th Senate District in Bullitt County and part of southern Jefferson County. He serves as Senate Budget Review Subcommittee on General Government, Finance, and Public Protection chair, and is vice chair of the Senate Standing Committees on State and Local Government; vice chair of the Licensing and Occupations Committee. Nemes is a member of the Senate standing committees on Appropriations and Revenue, and a member of the Health Services Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Statutory Committee and the Public Pension Oversight Board. Finally, Nemes is a member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Judiciary. Nemes recently served on the Benefits Cliff Task Force and the Executive Branch Efficiency Task Force during the 2022 Interim.

SENATE APPROVES PRIORITY MEASURE STRIVING TO FURTHER STABILIZE TEACHER'S PENSION SYSTEM

SENATE APPROVES PRIORITY MEASURE STRIVING

TO FURTHER STABILIZE TEACHER'S PENSION SYSTEM

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 14, 2024) — The following is a statement from Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, and Senate co-chair of the Public Pension Oversight Board (PPOB) following the Senate’s 24-12 approval of Senate Bill 4:

“State lawmakers have an obligation to the taxpayers of Kentucky and those within the respect state retirement systems to ensure their long-term viability, and it is especially true for me as co-chair of the important PPOB committee,” Higdon said upon the bill’s approval in the Senate on Wednesday. “Nothing in this bill takes away anything a school district employee has earned; everything is maintained.

“What the bill does is provide lawmakers and the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System (TRS) a better understanding of our liability related to the sick leave program to continue to financially stabilize TRS. SB 4 also creates a level playing field for rural and urban districts, teachers, and administrators.

“We’ve invested $10.7 billion into the system since 2016. That’s over $4 billion more than the law requires us to do. By 2030, we will pay $2 billion per year just to this one system alone. We must do what it takes to protect this pension system for our teachers. SB 4 is another step in doing that, and I appreciate my colleagues’ support of the bill.”

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BACKGROUND
The following information is from a February 7 press release from the Senate Majority Caucus regarding the efforts of PPOB and Higdon to address further the financial challenges facing Kentucky teacher’s retirement system.

Higdon filed SB 4 in January after providing background and the measure's purpose during January’s PPOB meeting.

Under state law, local school districts must provide full-time employees at least 10 days of sick leave. At the time of retirement, 30 percent of the value for these days is paid as compensation, influencing retirement benefits and the resulting retirement costs billed to the state.

The program currently has no mechanism for TRS to track sick days during a working teacher's and administrator's career, which would assist in determining the cost of the sick day program. State costs have more than doubled historically reported values and liability. Other forms of leave added to sick leave balances, such as personal days, emergency days, and annual leave, are inflating sick leave balances of some. These days will be allowed to accumulate but may not be factored into the final retirement benefit calculation. In one case, TRS reported a retiree accumulated 591 sick days after 25 years of service.

SB 4 will not be retroactive, meaning there will be no changes to employees' already-accumulated sick days for retirement purposes. Rather, there will be a greater emphasis on sick leave reporting to TRS and adherence to the pre-existing 10-day statutory limit moving forward for purposes of payment at retirement and inclusion in the final average salary of a retiring teacher. Sick days may still be accumulated and fully paid out at the district level, just as they always have, so SB 4 does not create a ‘use it or lose it’ situation. The only change specifies that going forward the portion of the sick payout that can be used towards retirement benefit calculations will be limited to what an employee has accrued as of June 30, 2024, plus an increase of no more than 10 days per year after that date.

Any additional days will roll forward and be paid at retirement but do not add to final retirement calculation. Under the bill’s provisions, if a teacher uses any sick days during a year, personal days can still be rolled over to sick days in order to keep an employee’s yearly total at 10.

The provisions of SB 4 will provide TRS and lawmakers a fuller understanding of the pension liabilities, ensure that other forms of leave balances among certain employees are not inflating costs, and ultimately further the General Assembly's commitment to fully fund and improve the long-term viability of TRS.  The measure serves to ensure every classroom teacher and administrator is treated equally.

GROWING COSTS OF THE SICK LEAVE PROGRAM

For years, costs of the sick leave program have been reported to be roughly $40 million annually with a liability of around $380 million. In recent years, through the work of PPOB, lawmakers received confirmation from the TRS actuary that the liability for the sick leave program was around $800 million—more than double what was previously reported to the legislature. In the 2022 state budget, the Kentucky General Assembly paid off $380 million in costs attributable to the TRS sick leave program. I have requested that the General Assembly pay off the remaining sick day liability in this year's budget, which is around $538 million.

Visit Legislature.ky.gov to learn more about Higdon, PPOB, and to find all other legislation being considered by the Kentucky General Assembly during the 2024 Legislative Session. Visit Legislative Research Commission YouTube Channel for the January PPOB meeting playback. Follow additional legislative coverage at KET.org/legislature.

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Senator Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, represents the 14th Senate District, including Larue, Marion, Nelson, Spencer, and Washington Counties. Higdon serves as Senate Transportation Committee chair. Higdon is also the Public Pension Oversight Board co-chair. He serves as an Education; Licensing and Occupations and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection committee member. Higdon previously served as a Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Committee member, which was restructured as a part of the new Senate Health Services Committee.

CARROLL FILES THE HORIZONS ACT

CARROLL FILES THE HORIZONS ACT

Transformational early childhood education legislation

FRANKFORT, KY (February 13, 2024) - Sen. Danny Carroll, R-Benton, officially filed the “Horizons Act” Tuesday afternoon. The proposal, Senate Bill 203, seeks to usher in a new era for Kentucky's children and working families, focusing on transformative support for early childhood education (ECE).

Provisions of the Horizons Act promote holistic improvements to ECE infrastructure by creating funding programs, establishing higher-education programs relating to the Kentucky Community and Technical College Systems (KCTCS), promoting provider growth, placing intense focus on quality ECE, and promoting innovation in the delivery of services.

During a Tuesday press conference, Dr. Sarah Vanover of Kentucky Youth Advocates (KYA) underscored the critical role of early learning in supporting families and preparing children for success in kindergarten. She stated, “Child care is an essential support for the whole family. Families will not go to work if they are worried about the health and safety of their children.”

Addressing the challenges faced by ECE centers, KYA has highlighted that 20 percent of Kentucky’s centers are at risk of closing post-federal pandemic relief. To address this, the Horizons Act introduces targeted funding programs through four new funds.

TARGETED FUNDING PROGRAMS

• The Innovations in ECE Delivery Fund aims to support innovative child care options, including on-site employer-based care and non-traditional hour services.

• The Foundations for Early Learning Fund provides funding to ECE providers based on enrollment numbers to offset rising wages and material costs. Grant awards would be awarded based on enrollment numbers, similar to the SEEK formula in K-12 education.

• The In-home Early Childhood Provider Fund supports start-up funding for small, certified providers operating in private homes, particularly in rural areas.

• The ECE Provider Start-up Fund focuses on establishing new child care services in areas with limited access, known as child care deserts.

Recognizing the importance of collaboration between the private sector and public stakeholders, the Innovations in ECE Delivery Fund encourages existing innovative models, such as the on-site employer-based child care at Toyota in Georgetown to create similar centers.

Dr. Charles Aull, executive director of the Kentucky Chamber Center for Policy and Research, stressed the critical role of quality child care in workforce and economic development.

“Ensuring that working parents have access to high-quality care and education opportunities for their children is a critical workforce and economic priority,” he said. “Investments in early childhood education services can help reverse the commonwealth’s unsustainable workforce trends by removing barriers to work and supporting workforce participation among adults. It also improves our business competitiveness by sending a strong message to employers that Kentucky is serious about solving our workforce crisis. Policymakers would be hard pressed to find a more worthwhile investment.”

Further focusing on the economic impacts of a lack of reliable ECE, the Horizons Act introduces an associate degree program in interdisciplinary ECE entrepreneurship through KCTCS to address workforce needs related to the economic aspect of ECE in Kentucky. Jessie Schook, speaking on behalf of KCTCS President Dr. Ryan Quarles, expressed support for Carroll’s efforts, stating that the program would equip individuals with the necessary skills to work within and own high-quality facilities.

Recognizing the imminent end of federal funds, the Horizons Act also focuses on preserving pandemic-era improvements to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), Kentucky’s subsidy program for low-income families. This includes ensuring that more low-income families can access and afford quality care while supporting providers and early childhood educators.

Dr. Jennifer Washburn, owner and operator of iKids Childhood Enrichment Center, highlighted the challenges faced by ECE centers following the expiration of federal funds and expressed optimism about the ongoing investments outlined in the Horizon Act.

FEDERAL FUNDS ENDING

As the federal American Rescue Plan Act funding for Kentucky's child care industry and programs approaches depletion, the Horizons Act becomes even more crucial. Kentucky received over $763 million to support the child care industry, with approximately $200 million remaining as of November 2023. The funds must be expended by September 2024.

During the press conference, Carroll encouraged support from his legislative colleagues and emphasized the significance of the Horizons Act in building a better future for Kentucky’s children, families and the business sector. 

“There is a bright horizon of endless possibilities out there for Kentucky’s kids, and I believe this bill will address many facets related to early learning,” Carroll said. “By putting these provisions in place to strengthen our economy, improve the workforce, support ECE providers and benefit working families, we can be an innovator in early education service accessibility, and how the services are delivered.”

To support the Horizon Act, Carroll will request a total investment of $300 million in the 2024-2026 state budget, $150 million in each fiscal year.

Find the Tuesday press conference via the Senate Majority Caucus Facebook Page by CLICKING HERE.

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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, Juvenile Justice Oversight Council, and the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee. 

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. 

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.
Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

STATEMENT RELEASE: SENATE BUDGET CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR REACT TO STRONG JANUARY REVENUE RECEIPTS

SENATE BUDGET CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR REACT TO STRONG JANUARY REVENUE RECEIPTS

Overall individual income tax revenue grows 4.1 percent despite half-percent income tax reduction

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 12, 2024) — The following is a joint statement from Senate Budget Chair and Vice Chair, Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights; and Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, R-Lexington regarding the release of the January revenue receipts:

“The January state revenue report is further evidence that our priority to lower working families' income tax not only leaves more money in Kentuckians’ pockets, but comprehensive tax reforms have successfully broadened the tax base, leading to record revenues.

“Naysayers’ opposition to leaving more money in Kentuckians' paychecks is an insult to the hardworking taxpayers and consumers who make the general fund dollars we are entrusted with possible. We remain steadfast in our conservative, pro-growth, pro-jobs policy and budgeting philosophy.

“The next two-year state budget will again reflect fiscal discipline and denounce the failed progressive tax and spend approach to governing.”

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In a release from the Office of State Budget Director on Monday, revenue report shows that January’s General Fund receipts totaled $1,344.8 million. The revenues were 4.4 percent more than what was received in January of last year, an increase of $56.8 million. January’s sales tax receipts hit a record high at $586.2 million.

CLICK HERE to find the report.

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Senator Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights, represents the 23rd Senate District in northern Kenton County. McDaniel is Senate Appropriations and Revenue chair and serves as an ex-officio member of each budget review subcommittee. He is a Senate Licensing and Occupations, and State and Local Government committee member. Additionally, McDaniel serves as a Public Pension Oversight Board member. 

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate123.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of McDaniel.

Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe, R-Lexington, represents the 12th Senate District, including Boyle, Mercer and Woodford Counties and part of Fayette County. She serves as Senate Appropriations and Revenue vice chair and Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee co-chair. Bledsoe is a Senate Families and Children, Licensing and Occupations, and State and Local Government committee member. Additionally, she serves as a member of each budget review subcommittee, which includes: Economic Development and Tourism, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection; Education; General Government; Finance and Public Protection; Human Resources; and Justice and Judiciary. 

Visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate112.jpg  for a high-resolution .jpeg of Bledsoe.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. 

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.
Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

HOWELL WANTS CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROTECTING KENTUCKY RESIDENTS ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT

HOWELL WANTS CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROTECTING KENTUCKY RESIDENTS ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT

SB 143 approved by the State Senate

FRANKFORT, KY. (February 12, 2024) -- Today, Sen. Jason Howell, R-Murray, presented legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 143, aimed at securing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot in Kentucky. The proposed amendment seeks to explicitly affirm that only United States citizens are eligible to vote in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

“It’s odd we don’t already have this spelled out in our Constitution. While this is specifically prohibited at the federal level, it isn’t addressed here in Kentucky,” said Howell. “This is about protecting citizens and the thousands of people who’ve lawfully navigated the immigration process.  One of the rewards of doing so is earning the right to vote.” 

Currently, Sections 145 and 155 of the Constitution of Kentucky already include three categories of people ineligible to vote. They are those found guilty of high crimes against the country, such as treason, convicted felons and those deemed mentally incompetent. 

The proposed change to the Constitution of Kentucky was presented in the Senate Standing Committee on State and Local Government, chaired by Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, just last week.

Following its passage in the Senate, SB 143 now awaits consideration in the House. The House has previously passed mirror legislation, House Bill 341, sponsored by Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Oakland. 

Should either bill successfully pass both chambers, Kentucky residents will have the opportunity to vote on the proposed amendment during the November elections, coinciding with the nation's presidential race. Adoption of the amendment to the Constitution of Kentucky would require majority support from voters.

For a look at the complete proposed constitutional amendment, go to the Legislative Research Commission at https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/24rs/sb143.html. 

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Senator Jason Howell, R-Murray, represents the 1st Senate District including Calloway, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Lyon, and Trigg Counties. As the 2023 Legislative Session convenes, he will serve as Senate Agriculture Committee chair. He will serve as a Banking and Insurance; Economic Development, Tourism and Labor; and Licensing and Occupations committee member. Howell will also serve as a Capital Projects and Bond Oversight Committee and Legislative Oversight and Investigations committee member.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Howell, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate101.jpg.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more. 

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. 

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives. 

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

SENATOR DANNY CARROLL, ADVOCATES TO UNVEIL TRANSFORMATIONAL CHILD CARE LEGISLATION

SENATOR DANNY CARROLL, ADVOCATES TO UNVEIL TRANSFORMATIONAL CHILD CARE LEGISLATION

Carroll to file the "Horizons Act" Tuesday afternoon

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 12, 2024) — Tomorrow morning, Sen. Danny Carroll, R-Benton, will be joined at a press conference by Dr. Sarah Vanover from Kentucky Youth Advocates; Charles Aull of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce; Jennifer Washburn, owner/operator of an early childhood education (ECE) center; other ECE center operators and advocates and stakeholders from various sectors across the state. 

The purpose is to unveil the "Horizons Act," a transformational $300 million child care bill. Carroll's legislative proposal addresses Kentucky's early childhood education crisis, particularly as federal pandemic-era funding dries up. The legislation is designed to help the industry sustain operations and create more opportunities for working Kentucky families and children.

The name of the bill reflects Carroll's commitment to creating a brighter future for Kentucky's children, working families, and business sector (large and small) through an intense focus on quality ECE, entrepreneurship opportunities, provider growth, and innovation in the delivery of ECE services, all to ensure a stable foundation for families across the socioeconomic spectrum.

What: Press conference on proposed legislation to address challenges facing the Kentucky child care industry.

Where: Capitol Annex, Room 269 

When: 10:30 a.m. EST, Tuesday, Feb. 13

Stream: The press conference will stream live on the KY Senate Republicans' Facebook Page

STATEMENT RELEASE: DENEEN REACTS FOLLOWING SENATE BILL 20 PASSING OUT OF COMMITTEE

STATEMENT RELEASE: 

DENEEN REACTS FOLLOWING SENATE BILL 20 

PASSING OUT OF COMMITTEE 

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 9, 2024) — The following is a statement from Senator Matt Deneen, R-Hardin, following the passage of Senate Bill 20 in yesterdays Senate Standing Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection

“It’s an unfortunate time here in the commonwealth as we must address a pressing issue, and that is gun violence being committed by juveniles. In far too many instances, juveniles are taking the lives of other juveniles, which in turn is threatening the peace and security of our communities.” 

“Individuals who choose to commit these violent felonies need to be held accountable. Senate Bill 20 is an attempt to do just that: provide justice for the victims and their families by holding those responsible for these violent felonies accountable. This bill has the backing of law enforcement across the commonwealth as they recognize this problem and the need for necessary tools to keep our neighborhoods and community safe. It is my hope that once Senate Bill 20 is signed into law, it will achieve just that.”

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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 also serves as a member of the  Senate Agriculture, Appropriations and Revenue, and Judiciary Committees. Additionally, he serves as a member of the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee, 2024-2026 Budget Preparation & Submission Statutory Committee, and the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Statutory Committee.

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

STATEMENT RELEASE: ADAMS REACTS TO SENATE'S PASSAGE OF BILL TO PROTECT THE MOST VULNERABLE KENTUCKIANS

STATEMENT RELEASE:

ADAMS REACTS TO SENATE'S PASSAGE OF BILL

TO PROTECT THE MOST VULNERABLE KENTUCKIANS

Senate Bill 145 will ensure Kentucky’s most vulnerable are cared for by the right people

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 8, 2024) - Earlier this afternoon, Senate Majority Caucus Chair Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, saw one of her 2024 priority pieces of legislation pass the Senate floor with resounding bipartisan support.

Senate Bill 145 will allow Kentucky health care facilities and Medicaid-enrolled health care providers to submit current and new prospective employees to registry checks that will identify individuals with a history involving either child abuse and neglect or adult abuse. The checks would utilize the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Human Services’ existing child abuse and neglect and adult caregiver misconduct registries.

“This bill simply puts another safety net in place for Kentuckians in health care facilities,” said Adams. “Oftentimes, residents and patients of these facilities aren't in a position to advocate for themselves and are particularly vulnerable to abuse. We must ensure the people who are tasked with caring for them are qualified and are the right people for the job.”

The measure passed with support from both sides of the aisle 34-0, and now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Find archived footage of floor discussions on SB 145, as well as Adams' committee presentation of the bill at KET.org/legislature/archives, and learn more about Adams at KYSenateRepublicans.com. 

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Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, represents Kentucky’s 36th Senate District in eastern Jefferson County. She is the Senate majority caucus chair. Adams serves as the newly formed Senate Families and Children vice chair and is a member of the Senate Banking and Insurance, Health Services, and Licensing and Occupations committees. Additionally, Adams is a member of the Legislative Research Commission, the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee, and the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Raque Adams, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate136.jpg

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel.

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

KENTUCKY SENATE MAJORITY WHIP MIKE WILSON GUIDES DEI LEGISLATION TO COMMITTEE PASSAGE

KENTUCKY SENATE MAJORITY WHIP MIKE WILSON GUIDES DEI LEGISLATION TO COMMITTEE PASSAGE

FRANKFORT, KY (February 9, 2024) – Senate Majority Whip Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, presented Senate Bill 6 (SB 6) as modified by a committee substitute, and outlined the measure to members of the Senate Education Committee Thursday.  The legislation protects Kentucky higher education students and limits the use of discriminatory and divisive concepts in the university setting. 

“SB 6 will counter a troubling trend within our public universities attempting to exclude from employment, or deny promotion to, scholars and professors who do not conform to the liberal ideologies dominating most of our higher-education institutions,” Wilson said.

Wilson filed the measure as a priority legislation on January 4, the first week of the 2024 General Assembly. 

“Current Kentucky law protects K-12 teachers and school employees from discrimination in hiring and promotions based upon political or religious opinions or affiliations,” said Wilson. “We must extend the same protections to our public university faculty as well, and make protections more explicit for the students these institutions exist to serve.”

The bill includes provisions to protect students, applicants, staff, and faculty from being compelled to adopt certain political positions for purposes of admission, hiring, promotion, or reception of other academic benefits. It provides that institutions should not require a course presenting discriminatory concepts as fact, or use training programs or materials if the program includes discriminatory concepts. Additionally, SB 6 stipulates state money shall not be used to fund discriminatory concepts in the classroom.

“We know that, here in Kentucky, the University of Louisville has required DEI statements for applicants seeking academic positions, and that this practice may be prevalent in other schools,” Wilson said.

SB 6 would require universities to post syllabus information, including book titles and course descriptions, for all courses online. Additionally, SB 6 would require student orientation to include discussion on the principles of free speech and viewpoint diversity, and require inclusion of the full text of the First Amendment. All student orientation materials, including videos, must be available online. Finally, institutions must conduct a survey on diversity of thought and publish the results in the 2025 and 2027 academic years.

It also requires that an individual hired for diversity initiatives shall include efforts to strengthen intellectual diversity, and at least 50 percent of the individual’s duties will be mentoring, coaching, and academic support for Pell Grant students. SB 6 also gives the attorney general the authority to file a writ of mandamus to enforce the bill’s provisions.

Wilson’s measure would not prohibit institutions from training individuals in non-discrimination laws, and does not infringe upon the First Amendment rights of faculty.

In December 2023, Wilson, along with Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, and Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, blocked a vote by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges from adopting a new DEI Position Statement to be required for universities’ accreditation.

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Sen. Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, represents the 32nd Senate District, including Logan, Simpson, and Todd Counties and southern Warren County. He serves as the Senate majority whip. As a Senate majority leadership member, he serves on the Legislative Research Commission, the Committee on Committees, and the Rules Committee. Wilson is a member of the Senate Agriculture; Economic Development, Tourism and Labor; Education; Transportation; and Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection committees. He also serves as Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee and Public Pension Oversight Board member. Wilson recently served as a 2022 Interim Early Childhood Education Task Force member.

ADAMS CHAMPIONS LEGISLATION KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER; PROVIDING RELATIVE CAREGIVERS THE RESOURCES THEY DESERVE

ADAMS CHAMPIONS LEGISLATION KEEPING FAMILIES TOGETHER; PROVIDING RELATIVE CAREGIVERS THE RESOURCES THEY DESERVE

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 8, 2024) — On Thursday, Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, carried one of her priority pieces of legislation out of the Senate with wide-ranging bipartisan support. Senate Bill 151 (SB 151) is aimed at providing families with options as they consider serious stressful decisions regarding a relative or close friend at risk of being harmed. 

SB 151 would allow children who must be removed from their homes to list potential caregivers that could influence their placement, opening up options for the child. The legislation would also allow relatives and fictive kin caregivers to change their placement status from temporary custody to a child-specific foster family. This change provides much-needed assistance for families.

“Many people who step up to care for a grandchild, niece, nephew, or other child do so out of love for the child and to keep them out of the traditional foster care system,” said Adams. “They want to keep their family intact and protect a family member from being abused or neglected. Imagine having a family member who is being abused and needs immediate help. I think most of us would step up, but making this one-time-only decision on the spot with no ability to reassess all available options or fully understand the impact that your decision will have on your personal finances isn't fair to the individual just trying to do the right thing for their family. We shouldn't restrict somebody’s compassion.”

It’s often not clear to families what all their options are in the high-stress moments when they first learn a child is in trouble. Currently, kinship caregivers cannot change care status once the child's placement has occurred. Senate Bill 151 would allow family members who were initially listed as having temporary custody to change their status to a child-specific foster home. This change would come with additional assistance and resources for families.

Currently, relatives and fictive kin caregivers receive different assistance than foster families. Registered foster care families receive $750 or more per month per child in state-funded assistance which can be used for clothing or respite care, such as mental health treatment.

“In a traumatic situation where a niece, nephew, or cousin is being harmed, families want to help that child and most wouldn’t think twice about volunteering for temporary custody. What most don’t realize is that comes with minimal support and resources,” Adams said. “State officials don’t allow any changes in caregiver status after that initial decision. This bill changes that and allows a relative foster caregiver to additional assistasnce”

Major provisions of Adams’ SB 151 include

•  incorporating new foster care supports and services for relatives and fictive caregivers to access funding supports in their care for a child;

• allowing children to suggest potential relatives or fictive kin caregivers to a district court if they are removed from their homes; and

• setting criteria for when a relative or fictive kin caregiver can apply to be certified as a child-specific foster home through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

The bill now heads to the State House of Representatives for consideration.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more. 

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 Senator Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, represents Kentucky’s 36th Senate District in eastern Jefferson County. She is the Senate majority caucus chair. Adams serves as the newly formed Senate Families and Children vice chair and is a member of the Senate Banking and Insurance, Health Services, and Licensing and Occupations committees. Additionally, Adams is a member of the Legislative Research Commission, the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee, and the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee.

WISE EFFORT WOULD REDUCE HEALTHCARE COSTS FOR PRIVATELY INSURED KENTUCKIANS

WISE EFFORT WOULD REDUCE HEALTHCARE

COSTS FOR PRIVATELY INSURED KENTUCKIANS

Sen. Max Wise champions next effort in pharmacy benefit management reform

FRANKFORT, KY (February 8, 2024) - Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, continues to champion the cause of fair practices in pharmacy benefit management by introducing groundbreaking legislation to address the challenges faced by Kentucky pharmacies. The proposed legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 188, builds upon the success of Senator Wise's previous efforts, particularly his leadership in passing SB 50 during the 2020 Legislative Session.

The escalating issue of unfair pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices has led to the closure of 64 community pharmacies in Kentucky over the last two years, severely impacting access to medication for many Kentuckians. Drawing inspiration from successful PBM reform legislation in neighboring states, Wise's bill aims to empower citizens to choose where they purchase their medication, prevent further closures of community pharmacies, and ensure fair reimbursement rates for these essential healthcare providers.

SB 188 mirrors the principles of SB 50 imparting Medicaid, which limited the state to a single PBM and directed the Department of Medicaid Services to establish a single preferred drug list. SB 50 led to a substantial $282 million in cost avoidance for the Medicaid program according to legislative testimony from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services during the 2023 Interim.

“I’m optimistic this measure will yield similar savings by applying the same standards to the commercial market, effectively cutting costs for Kentuckians with private health insurance plans,” Wise said.

The key provisions of SB 188 include:

●       Prohibiting PBMs from mandating mail-order prescriptions.

●       Ensuring fair reimbursement rates for community pharmacies.

●       Preventing steering of patients to pharmacies owned by the PBM.

●       Allowing community pharmacies to fill 90-day prescriptions for maintenance drugs.

●       Prohibiting higher co-pays at community pharmacies compared to PBM-owned pharmacies.

●       Protecting community pharmacies from retaliation for providing cost-saving information to patients.

Additionally, the bill mandates that PBMs pay pharmacies at least the cost of the dispensed drugs, provide a fair dispensing fee, and include community pharmacies in their networks to offer patients the flexibility to choose a nearby pharmacy.

Wise's commitment to addressing the concerns of Kentucky's residents and rural communities is evident in his ongoing pursuit of legislative reforms. Wise’s SB 50, enacted during the 2020 Legislative Session, addressed payment issues between Kentucky Medicaid's drug middlemen and pharmacists, marking a significant milestone in rectifying PBM abuses. The bill's enactment reflected bipartisan collaboration, with Republican and Democratic lawmakers working alongside independent pharmacies to create a legislative solution. The bill established a single preferred drug list and placed the Department for Medicaid Services in charge of reimbursement methodologies, curbing unfair practices plaguing community pharmacies for years.

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Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, represents the 16th Senate District, including Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Taylor Counties and eastern Warren County. Wise is the co-chair of the Interim Standing Committees on Economic Development and Workforce Investment; co-chair of the Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology; and co-chair of the Task Force on School and Campus Security.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Wise, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate116.jpg

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the upcoming 2024 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 legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

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

SENATOR STORM’S AERO ACT TAKES FLIGHT

SENATOR STORM’S AERO ACT TAKES FLIGHT

Senate Bill 127 approved by Senate 37-0; qualifies for House consideration

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 7, 2024) — Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, carried his 2024 Legislative Session priority legislation to Senate passage on Wednesday. Senate Bill 127 (SB 127), known as the AERO Act (Aerospace Education Reinvestment Opportunity), is workforce-centric. It would enhance the education and training pipeline for aviation and aerospace professionals in Kentucky by establishing scholarship funds and collaboration between public programs and private partners within the industry. 

Key provisions of SB 127 include the creation of the Kentucky Aerospace, Aviation, and Defense Investment Fund, administered by the Council on Postsecondary Education. The fund is intended to support collaborations between various programs, industry partners, and the commonwealth to address workforce demands. A priority of the bill is to establish private financial and philanthropic support for the investment fund. At least 65 percent of the fund is for partnerships between aviation and aerospace programs and industry partners to provide training scholarships for Kentucky residents enrolled in programs. Thirty-five percent of the fund would be reserved for contracts between public aviation programs and industry partners to provide grants for equipment for public high school vocational programs or postsecondary education institutions.

“I think this bill is vitally critical,” Storm said in his bill presentation, emphasizing its economic development and workforce significance.

“We’re looking at a broad spectrum of workers. Pilots, sheet metal fabricators, avionic mechanics, power plant and airframe mechanics, flight engineers and many others.”

Storm added the measure is a product of efforts by educational institutions, industry professionals and his fellow legislators. 

Storm is the Aviation/Aerospace legislative caucus co-chair and the Senate Transportation Committee vice chair. He also represents Laurel County, home to the London-Corbin Airport. Storm believes a regional airport signifies economic life for a community and a region. His leadership positions with the committee and caucus and his representation of a region experiencing vast economic growth position him well to lead on his session priority of strengthening Kentucky’s already robust aviation and aerospace industry. 

Kentucky universities and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System have also made great strides in aviation and aerospace education. Eastern Kentucky University, Storm’s alma mater, offers a four-year aviation degree, and its enrollment has nearly tripled over the last three to four years. KCTCS’ aviation program allows students to earn the FAA ratings required to become a professional pilot, including the private pilot certificate, instrument rating, commercial pilot certificate, multi-engine rating (airplane track), and the certified flight instructor certificate. Additionally, Morehead State University has an exciting Space Science Center and a satellite tracking station as part of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) network. 

Kentucky is home to more than 100 aerospace-related facilities that employ nearly 100,000 people. Kentucky has announced roughly 40 aerospace-related projects since 2017, totaling more than $1.1 billion in investment and more than 2,800 jobs. In recent state reports, Kentucky exported approximately $20 billion in aerospace products and parts. According to the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, the overall annual impact of the aerospace and defense industry is $19.4 billion. However, federal studies project a need for almost 800,000 new pilots worldwide over the next 20 years.

Mirror legislation to SB 127, HB 345, has been introduced in the Kentucky state House of Representatives by Storm’s fellow co-chair of the Aviation/Aerospace Caucus, Rep. Ken Fleming, R-Louisville. 

“Rep. Fleming is championing this effort in the state House of Representatives, so I feel good about the prospects of one of our bills getting to the Governor’s desk and signed into law,” Storm said. “I hope we can secure some funding to support this effort because our aviation and aerospace industry is an economic game-changer.”

Find archived footage of Storm’s bill presentation and floor discussion on SB 127 later at KET.org/legislature/archives and learn more about Storm at legislature.ky.gov or KYSenateRepublicans.com.  

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Sen. Brandon J. Storm, R-London, represents the 21st Senate District, including Casey, Lincoln, Laurel, and Rockcastle Counties. He recently graduated from the esteemed Henry Toll Fellowship and was the only Kentuckian to participate in the 2023 program. Senator Storm serves as a Senate member of the Interim Joint Committees of Banking and Insurance; Economic Development and Workforce Investment; Judiciary; Local Government; State Government; Transportation; and Tourism, Small Business and Information Technology. He also serves as the co-chair of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee; a member of the Jail and Corrections Reform Task Force; and a member of the Multimodal Freight Transportation System Improvement Task Force. 

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Storm, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators/Pages/Legislator-Profile.aspx?DistrictNumber=121.  

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. 

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.
Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

HIGDON TO PRESENT BILL AIMING TO FURTHER STABILIZE TEACHER'S PENSION SYSTEM

HIGDON TO PRESENT BILL AIMING TO FURTHER

STABILIZE TEACHER'S PENSION SYSTEM

Senate Bill 4 will ensure cost transparency and viability of the TRS sick leave program

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 7, 2024) — The following information is from a January release from the Senate Majority Caucus regarding the efforts of Public Pension Oversight Board co-chair Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, to further address financial challenges facing Kentucky teacher's retirement system. Senate Bill 4 (SB 4) will be considered during the noon Senate State and Local Government Committee meeting. Minor modifications from the bill's original version simplify the goal of ensuring fairness across urban and rural districts and for teachers and administrators by giving equal access to sick days. Tune in to the noon committee meeting at KET.org/legislature:

Higdon filed SB 4 in January after providing background and the measure's purpose during January's PPOB meeting.

Under state law, local school districts must provide full-time school employees no less than 10 days of sick leave. At the time of retirement, 30 percent of the value for these days is paid as compensation, influencing retirement benefits and the resulting retirement costs billed to the state.

The program currently has no mechanism for TRS to track sick days during a working teacher's and administrator's career, which would assist in determining the cost of the sick day program. State costs have more than doubled historically reported values and liability. Other forms of leave added to sick leave balances, such as personal days, emergency days, and annual leave, are inflating sick leave balances of some. These days will be allowed to accumulate but may not be factored into the final retirement benefit calculation. In one case, TRS reported a retiree accumulated 591 sick days after 25 years of service.

SB 4 will not be retroactive, meaning there will be no changes to employees' already-accumulated sick days for retirement purposes. Rather, there will be a greater emphasis on sick leave reporting to TRS and adherence to a 10-day limit moving forward for purposes of payment at retirement and inclusion in the final average salary of a retiring teacher.

The provisions of SB 4 will provide TRS and lawmakers a fuller understanding of the pension liabilities, ensure that other forms of leave balances among certain employees are not inflating costs, and ultimately further the General Assembly's commitment to fully fund and improve the long-term viability of TRS. The measure serves to ensure every classroom teacher and administrator is treated equally.

GROWING COSTS OF THE SICK LEAVE PROGRAM

For years, costs of the sick leave program have been reported to be roughly $40 million annually with a liability of around $380 million. In recent years, through the work of PPOB, lawmakers received confirmation from the TRS actuary that the liability for the sick leave program was around $800 million—more than double what was previously reported to the legislature. In the 2022 state budget, the Kentucky General Assembly paid off $380 million in costs attributable to the TRS sick leave program. I have requested that the General Assembly pay off the remaining sick day liability, in this year's budget, which is around $538 million.

"We still have a ways to go to get TRS financially stabilized, and that starts with getting liabilities paid down," Higdon said upon filing SB 4. "There are many variables in the retirement equation, and each has a cost, so we have to have accountability. Our main goal is to keep the promise made to those in the system."

FUNDING FOR TEACHER'S PENSIONS

Since 2016, the General Assembly has put over $10.6 billion into TRS, reflecting record funding well above the statutorily required amount. Nevertheless, the system's funded level has only improved marginally even with these contribution levels. The unfunded liability has increased and will require even greater funding in the future.

"I believe this bill will help level the playing field and will be one more step toward improving TRS," Higdon said. "It will make sure teachers and administrators are treated equally."

The state currently pays approximately $1.2 billion to TRS annually, but the projection is expected to surpass $2 billion annually by 2030.

The General Assembly will continue its financial commitment in the 2024-25 biennial budget.

Visit Legislature.ky.gov to learn more about Higdon, PPOB, and to find all other legislation being considered by the Kentucky General Assembly during the 2024 Legislative Session. Visit Legislative Research Commission YouTube Channel for the January PPOB meeting playback. Follow additional legislative coverage at KET.org/legislature.

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Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, represents the 14th Senate District, including Larue, Marion, Nelson, Spencer, and Washington Counties. Higdon serves as Senate Transportation Committee chair. Higdon is also the Public Pension Oversight Board co-chair. He serves as an Education; Licensing and Occupations and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection committee member. Higdon previously served as a Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Committee member, which was restructured as a part of the new Senate Health Services Committee.

Visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate114.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of Higdon.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel.

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

SENATOR DAMON THAYER REACTS TO TOYOTA'S OVER $1 BILLION INVESTMENT INTO FLAGSHIP FACILITY

SENATOR DAMON THAYER REACTS TO TOYOTA'S OVER $1 BILLION INVESTMENT INTO FLAGSHIP FACILITY

Senator Damon Thayer represents the City of Georgetown and Scott County, home to Toyota’s largest manufacturing facility.

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 6, 2024) — The following is a statement from Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, upon Toyota's announcement of an additional $1.3 billion into its Georgetown-based facility:

"Toyota is one of our state's greatest business partners, and they have been one of my favorite organizations to work with as Senator from Georgetown and Scott County. I consider myself fortunate to represent the fastest-growing city in the state, and its continued success and bustling communities owe a large part of it to Toyota's presence. This new investment is significant, and we can all be grateful for Toyota's trust in Kentucky as a home to its flagship facility, which will soon have an even bigger footprint.

"For the remainder of my final session as Senator for the 17th District, I will continue advocating for the pro-business and pro-growth policies that I believe have been conducive to investments like this from Toyota and other companies."

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BACKGROUND

Toyota Kentucky has been a hub of the automaker's North American operations since 1986, a release from the company read. Its nearly 9,400 team members have assembled some of the most beloved nameplates in the Toyota lineup, including the Camry – America's best-selling passenger car for 22 consecutive years. The latest investment will support future electrification efforts, including assembling an all-new, three-row battery electric SUV for the U.S. market. The project will bring the plant's total investment to nearly $10 billion and support the previously announced future BEV assembly at Toyota Kentucky. It also adds a battery pack assembly line to the facility, with batteries supplied by Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina.

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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 a member of the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee. 

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate117.jpg for a high-resolution JPEG file of Thayer.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel. 

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

TURNER CHAMPIONS SENATE RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF TEXAS’ EFFORTS TO DEFEND SOUTHERN BORDER

TURNER CHAMPIONS SENATE RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT

OF TEXAS’ EFFORTS TO DEFEND SOUTHERN BORDER

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 6, 2024) – Sen. Johnnie Turner, R-Harlan, presented Senate Resolution 123 on Monday, which was adopted by voice vote and affirmed the Kentucky state Senate’s support of Texas’ border efforts and calls on Governor Andy Beshear to join 24 other governors in doing the same.

“The failure to secure our southern border has created a humanitarian crisis,” said Turner. “These reckless policies are contributing to suffering not just for border state residents, but now throughout our nation and right here in Kentucky where we continue to face a drug epidemic.”

This special resolution, in conjunction with a similar House resolution, sends a message that even in Governor Beshear’s refusal to express support for Texas, Kentuckians, through their duly elected representatives in the Kentucky General Assembly, support the rule of law and will stand with Texas as it takes reasonable measures to secure the border.

“The Kentucky General Assembly supports Governor Greg Abbott and the state of Texas in using every tool at their disposal to secure our southern border, especially since the Biden administration is failing to do so,” Turner said. “Today, we’re demanding Governor Beshear stand up for common sense and not cower in the shadow of his political party’s reckless immigration policies by publicly issuing his support for Operation Lone Star and solidarity for the state of Texas.”

Since taking office three years ago, the Biden administration and radical left have repeatedly refused to enforce current immigration laws, endorsed dangerous open border policies exploited by the cartels, and are illegally allowing caravans of migrants who entered our country illegally to roam free. As a result, an estimated 10 million illegal migrants have crossed our southern border, leaving our country vulnerable to deadly drugs such as fentanyl, rampant crime, violence, and potential terrorism.

The special resolution highlights concern with the Biden administration’s failure to honor its constitutional responsibilities and affirms support for Texas’ efforts to fill the gap ignored by the federal government.

Governors supporting Abbott rightly concluded that the United States Constitution makes clear states have a right of self-defense under Article 4, Section 4 and Article 1, Section 10, Clause. Because the Biden administration has abdicated its constitutional compact duties to the states, Texas has every legal justification to protect the sovereignty of our states and our nation.

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Sen. Johnnie Turner, R-Harlan, represents the 29th Senate District, including Bell, Floyd, Harlan, Knott, and Letcher Counties. Turner is the Senate Natural Resources and Energy vice chair. He also serves as a member of the Senate committees on Banking and Insurance, Judiciary, and Transportation.

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators/Pages/Legislator-Profile.aspx?DistrictNumber=129   for a high-resolution .jpeg of Turner.

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR CHILDREN OF MILITARY FAMILIES TO PARTICIPATE IN 'MILITARY KIDS DAY'

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR CHILDREN OF MILITARY FAMILIES TO PARTICIPATE IN 'MILITARY KIDS DAY'

Hosts announce official event agenda

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 6, 2024) – Military Kids Day, hosted at the Kentucky state Capitol, is quickly approaching. Lawmakers are eager to welcome military kids and their families to Frankfort. Sen. Jimmy Higdon and House and Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection (VMAPP) chairs, Rep. Walker Thomas and Sen. Rick Girdler, announced the official event agenda on Tuesday.

The annual event will begin at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27, at the Kentucky state Capitol. The deadline to apply is Monday, Feb. 19.

To participate, complete an online application form at legislature.ky.gov or by clicking HERE. The application can be submitted via email to Donna.Holiday@lrc.ky.gov.

EVENT BACKGROUND

Initiated by Higdon 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 VMAPP Committee, children are invited to take a Capitol tour, page for their respective legislators, participate in a Capitol scavenger hunt, and attend committee meetings related to military issues. Additionally, participants will hear from featured guest speakers, and a new addition to this year's event will be flight simulators courtesy of the Aviation Museum of Kentucky.

The Kentucky state House of Representatives will host this year's Military Kids Day. Thomas serves as chair of the House VMAPP Committee.

"Sens. Higdon, Girdler and I are extremely grateful for all the hard work that has gone into the effort thus far. It's been a collective effort by Legislative Research Commission staff, the Kentucky Army National Guard and many other stakeholders, so we are thrilled to see it all come together again this year," Thomas said.

Higdon thanked the media for event coverage, which has helped raise awareness of Military Kids Day.

"It puts a smile on my face to see these kids given a platform and well-deserved attention," he said. "This day is about the sacrifices they make in their parent's military service, such as when they are away from their moms and dads or the travel and changing of schools that service sometimes requires. There's plenty of bad and negative news out there, so I hope everyone will take the time to provide this day a platform and give all these great young men, women and future leaders our time and attention."

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Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, represents the 14th Senate District, including Larue, Marion, Nelson, Spencer, and Washington Counties. Higdon serves as Senate Transportation Committee chair. Higdon is also the Public Pension Oversight Board co-chair. He serves as an Education; Licensing and Occupations and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection committee member. Higdon previously served as a Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Committee member, which was restructured as a part of the new Senate Health Services Committee.

Visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate114.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of Higdon.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2024 Legislative Session, such as committee schedules, membership, legislation, and more.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel.

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also find information on caucus members, as well as view press releases from our office, by visiting KYSenateRepublicans.com.

SENATOR STORM CELEBRATES FUNDING AWARDS BENEFITING ROCKCASTLE COUNTY

SENATOR STORM CELEBRATES FUNDING

AWARDS BENEFITING ROCKCASTLE COUNTY

From the Office of Senator Brandon Storm

FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 5, 2024) – Sen. Brandon Storm could not attend a celebration on Monday in Rockcastle County regarding the ribbon cutting for Grateful Bread Food Pantry's upgraded facility and state and federal award funds benefiting economic development and career-ready education endeavors. Rockcastle County Schools Superintendent Carrie Ballinger delivered remarks on Storm's behalf. The remarks were as follows:

"I regret I could not be with each of you this morning to celebrate various awards that will make a positive difference for Rockcastle County and the region we call home. First, thank you to the Christian Appalachian Project and Grateful Bread for blessing so many seniors, children, and families who depend on your philanthropy. Your work is deserving of support. I am unashamed to pronounce my Christian faith, and I want to thank you for being a living example of the life our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, asks each of us to live.

"I am excited today for future opportunities for Rockcastle County and surrounding areas. My colleagues and I in the Kentucky General Assembly remain committed to robust economic growth. Through proven business-friendly policies and tax reform contributing to making days like today possible, we want to ensure we make the most out of the natural blessings we have here in our region and as Kentuckians.

"With the commonwealth's vast highways, waterways, railways, strong aviation industry, central geographic location, four seasons, incredible people, and signature industries—Kentucky epitomizes "BUILD-READY."

"However, being content with our innate blessings is not enough. We must seize the opportunity to ensure Kentucky shines like the jewel we know it is. With trusted individuals on the ground in our communities, my colleagues and I allocated $200 million through House Bill 1 in 2022 to support build-ready sites like here in Rockcastle County. I am grateful to see these available awards reaching our communities. Taxpayers, whom we should each stand up today and thank for making this possible, can rest assured the funds are in good hands.

"The state efforts mentioned above will only be boosted because the same is true for the nearly $1.5 million in federal funds to help advance career-connectedness through exciting individualized postsecondary career plans, dual credit courses, local hands-on work experience, and industry-recognized credentials.

"Recently, my colleagues and I have emphasized strengthening career and technical education through various policy enactments like Senate Bill 59, which focused on postsecondary readiness, and HB 680, to increase Kentucky's economic competitiveness in technology and computing employment. We allocated $140 million for operating costs in the most recently enacted budget for Local Area Vocational Education Centers. The education our area technology centers provide is critical because Kentucky continues to face workforce challenges and will need a prepared workforce to fill the available and will-be-available high-paying skilled jobs.

"I thank each of you for your role and service in improving Kentucky. Representing Rockcastle, Lincoln, Laurel, and Casey Counties in the 21st state Senate District is an honor. I am working hard for you in Frankfort, focusing on growing the state's aviation and aerospace industry to support the continued growth that celebrations like today will rely on. God bless each of you, and thank you again."

________

BACKGROUND

Economic Development - Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI) Awards

KPDI is a statewide effort to support upgrades at industrial sites throughout the commonwealth and position Kentucky for continued economic growth. KPDI, authorized by lawmakers through a collaborative effort by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development, included $100 million in state funding toward site and building upgrades across the state. There was a total of $100 million to support approved mega-development projects of at least $10 million allocated to each of Kentucky's 120 counties based on population. After a first round of grant awards from the counties' fund, the remaining funds are pooled for a second round of grant awards.

The Rockcastle County Fiscal Court, representing the Rockcastle County Industrial Development Authority, conducted a comprehensive examination and secured land to establish a regional industrial park. An independent site selection consultant recognized the project's potential for future investment or as a location for an economic development initiative. A budget exceeding $1.6 million was approved in enhancements, including more than $800,000 from state funds, with more expected but not officially announced as of this release. Financial support for the project will come from Rockcastle and Garrard Counties, with Lincoln County endorsing the endeavor.

Christian Appalachian Project's Grateful Bread Facility Expansion Ribbon Cutting

The Grateful Bread food pantry has been around for many years and will more than double its facility size to support the nearly 200 seniors living in isolation and provides food backpacks for elementary school students on the weekend who may not have enough food at home when not receiving free or reduced lunch at school. The upgraded facility will provide dignity by allowing residents to shop rather than be handed food. It will also have a drive-thru for colder months.

According to its website, Grateful Bread provides monthly free and nutritious food to eligible families in Rockcastle County. Many families cannot afford the most basic groceries and must often choose between purchasing food and providing safe, warm, and dry homes or health care for their families. CAP helps fill the gap to ensure everyone can access essential food and necessities. For people living in need, Grateful Bread provides our participants with a welcome respite from the constant stress of worrying about feeding their families. We are helping put food on the tables of our most vulnerable people.

The Grateful Bread food kitchen is part of the Christian Appalachian Project, which for over 50 years, has served the people of Appalachia by building hope, transforming lives, and sharing Christ's love. The organization's website details how Rev. Ralph W. Beiting, a Catholic priest from northern Kentucky, was assigned to pastor a large portion of east-central Kentucky. Through his outreach, he witnessed tremendous poverty in Appalachia. He saw children weak from hunger, families beaten down by hardship, seniors living in fear and isolation, and communities desperate for hope. With the help of family and friends, he provided food, clothing, and other essentials to neighbors in need. What started small quickly grew, and the Christian Appalachian Project was founded in 1964. Through donor support, dedicated volunteers, and a selfless staff, CAP now touches the lives of more than 1 million people each year. By working with other local food banks and humanitarian service providers, our reach extends to parts of all 13 states of the Appalachian region, including Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Find out more and learn how to donate to the organization's cause HERE.

"Rockcastle Ready" awarded federal funds through the Perkins Innovation and Modernization Career-Connected High School Grant

Rockcastle County Schools and Allen County Schools received $1.475 million each as a part of a federal initiative to advance career-connected high schools. According to Ballinger, the grant will be for three years, totaling over 4.4 million in grant funds awarded to Rockcastle County Schools. The funds result from a $25 million grant pool. Issued by the U.S. Department of Education, the investments aim to enhance the capacity of education and workforce systems to collaborate with businesses and industries. The grant will also serve to aid students with exam fees, work-based learning enhancements, and financial assistance. Learn more about the federal grant HERE.

Visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senator Brandon Storm and details on the ongoing 2024 Legislative Session.

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Sen. Brandon J. Storm, R-London, represents the 21st Senate District, including Casey, Lincoln, Laurel, and Rockcastle Counties. He recently graduated from the esteemed Henry Toll Fellowship and was the only Kentuckian to participate in the 2023 program. Senator Storm serves as a Senate member of the Interim Joint Committees of Banking and Insurance; Economic Development and Workforce Investment; Judiciary; Local Government; State Government; Transportation; and Tourism, Small Business and Information Technology. He also serves as the co-chair of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee; a member of the Jail and Corrections Reform Task Force; and a member of the Multimodal Freight Transportation System Improvement Task Force.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Storm, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators/Pages/Legislator-Profile.aspx?DistrictNumber=121. 

SENATOR MAX WISE ADDRESSES ABUSE AND LACKING ACCOUNTABILITY AT ADAIR JUVENILE FACILITY

SENATOR MAX WISE ADDRESSES ABUSE AND LACKING ACCOUNTABILITY AT ADAIR JUVENILE FACILITY

FRANKFORT, Ky, (Feb. 2, 2024) — In response to the recently released audit of the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice and the troubling allegations surrounding the Adair County Youth Detention Center, Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, issues the following statement:

“I was appalled when I first read the tragic reports of juvenile abuse that took place at the Adair County Youth Detention Center in December 2022. Shortly after the news broke, I visited the center to tour the facility, meet with center officials, and get a full picture of its problems. The specific details of mistreatment and negligence that took place are truly abhorrent. I was also deeply disturbed by the subsequent incidents, specifically the failure of leadership in the Adair County facility and the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) as a whole to take accountability and prevent future abuse.

“As many of you already know, this facility is facing severe allegations of sexual abuse, denial of mental and physical health treatments, and restriction of access to basic hygiene facilities and products. Recently, a third-party review of Kentucky’s Department of Juvenile Justice yielded a shocking report illustrating a clear crisis in our juvenile justice system. The audit revealed several concerns with the DJJ’s staffing, culture, procedures, and strategic direction. There are inconsistent isolation policies and practices, pepper spray overuse at a rate significantly higher than adult federal prisons, a lack of clarity surrounding discipline and force, and issues with understaffing.”

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Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, represents the 16th Senate District including Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Taylor Counties and eastern Warren County. He is Senate Economic Development, Tourism and Labor Committee chair. Wise also serves as a Senate Education Committee member and is a member of the newly formed Families and Children Committee and Health Services Committee. Additionally, he is an Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee member.

Please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate116.jpg for a high-resolution .jpeg of Wise.