KENTUCKY SENATE LEADERS BACK MEREDITH’S NOMINATION TO FEDERAL JUDGESHIP

KENTUCKY SENATE LEADERS BACK MEREDITH’S NOMINATION TO FEDERAL JUDGESHIP

FRANKFORT Ky. (June 20, 2025) — The following is a joint statement from Senate Majority Leadership supporting President Donald J. Trump's nomination of Chad Meredith to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

“As leaders of the Kentucky Senate Majority, we proudly express our full support for Chad Meredith’s nomination to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

"Chad has a principled legal mind, and his career has been defined by professionalism, fairness, and a deep respect for the constitution. He brings a wealth of experience to this nomination, from the courtroom to the appellate bench, shaped by a devotion to the rule of law.

“We’ve known Chad for over a decade. He is a highly respected attorney with strong character, humility, intelligence, and integrity. Those who have worked with him know his commitment to justice is driven by principle.

“This is also a proud day for our colleague and friend, Sen. Steve Meredith. We know how proud he must be to see his son nominated to serve the people of Kentucky and the nation with honor.

“In a time when our nation’s courts deserve thoughtful and grounded leadership, Chad Meredith’s record stands on its own. We are confident he will serve with distinction and encourage the U.S. Senate to move forward with his confirmation.”

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort on June 3 to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, January. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

U.S. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS KEY PROTECTIONS FOR MINORS IN VICTORY FOR KENTUCKY

U.S. SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS KEY PROTECTIONS

 FOR MINORS IN VICTORY FOR KENTUCKY

Ruling validates purpose and intent of 2023’s Senate Bill 150

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 18, 2025) — The United States Supreme Court today upheld state laws like Kentucky’s Senate Bill 150, affirming that states have the constitutional authority to protect minors from experimental gender-altering medical procedures. This pivotal decision resolves a national legal debate and marks a defining victory for children and Kentucky values.

SB 150, sponsored by Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, was passed in 2023 to shield children under 18 from irreversible hormone therapies and surgical interventions while reinforcing parents' rights to be involved in their children’s critical health decisions. The law also helps preserve classroom focus by preventing the spread of politicized ideology in public schools.

“Today’s decision is a victory for common sense and the safety of our children,” said Wise. “From day one, the Kentucky General Assembly was focused on one thing: protecting minors from making irreversible decisions before they are old enough to fully understand the consequences. The court’s ruling affirms what most Kentuckians believe — that parents matter, science matters, and our kids deserve their childhood and innocence. I’m proud of Kentucky’s leadership, grateful to Attorney General Russell Coleman for defending the law, and thankful that our nation’s highest court recognized the legitimate and compelling interests at stake. Common sense has triumphed.”

The 6–3 ruling in United States v. Skrmetti upheld the constitutionality of laws similar to SB 150, which prohibit gender transition surgeries and puberty blockers for minors. Opponents had argued that such laws violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, but the Supreme Court rejected that claim to side with state legislatures acting to protect child safety.

“This case carries with it the weight of fierce scientific and policy debates about the safety, efficacy and propriety of medical treatments in an evolving field,” U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts wrote. The voices in these debates raise sincere concerns; the implications for all are profound. We leave questions regarding its policy to the people, their elected representatives, and the democratic process.”

The ruling affirms the General Assembly’s authority to regulate healthcare for minors reasonably.

“This decision validates what we’ve said in Kentucky all along,” Wise added. “As duly elected representatives, we have a duty to protect our most vulnerable, with or without bipartisan support. When the Governor vetoed this bill, we overrode him, because protecting children shouldn’t be a partisan issue. Kentucky is stronger when decency and common sense, not politics, drive our leadership.”

The ruling comes amid growing international skepticism over gender-altering treatments for youth. Countries like Sweden, Norway, the United Kingdom, and Finland have all restricted or paused access to similar procedures, citing a lack of long-term evidence and serious safety concerns.

Background on Senate Bill 150

·     Protects minors from irreversible and medically unproven gender transition procedures.

·     Empowers parents by requiring schools and providers to involve families in health decisions and mental health disclosures.

·     Preserves educational focus by requiring school policies to align with biological sex and respecting the First Amendment rights of educators and students.

Wise and the Kentucky General Assembly will continue to uphold family-centered legislation and safeguard children from politically motivated experiments. Lawmakers remain committed to empowering parents, protecting childhood innocence, and ensuring Kentucky remains a national leader in crafting commonsense policy grounded in truth.

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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 the Senate Majority Floor Leader. As a member of Senate majority leadership, he serves on the Legislative Research Commission. Wise is a member of the Interim Joint Committees on Economic Development and Workforce Investment; Education; Families and Children; and Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort on Tuesday, June 3, to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visitKYSenateRepublicans.com

MILLS CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW HENDERSON COUNTY COAL MINE

MILLS CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW HENDERSON COUNTY COAL MINE

Senator highlights coal’s role in energy security, economic growth in northwestern Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 18, 2025) — Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, joined local officials and business leaders on Tuesday to celebrate the grand opening of Alliance Coal’s newest underground mining operation in Henderson County. The Henderson County Mine is projected to employ more than 400 Kentuckians by the end of the year.

The multi-million-dollar investment reflects strong private-sector confidence in Kentucky’s coal industry and reaffirms the region’s vital role in delivering affordable, reliable energy to millions of Americans.

“This mine is more than just a local success story. It’s a powerful reminder that Kentucky coal keeps the lights on across this country,” Mills said. “I’m proud to stand with the Alliance Coal team and all the workers who make our energy security possible.”

A longtime advocate for Kentucky energy producers, Mills has worked to strengthen the commonwealth’s energy policy in the General Assembly. In 2023, he sponsored Senate Bill 4, which requires rigorous review before any fossil fuel power plant can be retired to ensure grid reliability and affordability. He followed that effort in 2024 with Senate Bill 349, which established a framework for a comprehensive, long-term state energy strategy to protect consumers and maintain Kentucky’s energy-producing leadership.

“These laws were designed to protect Kentucky’s energy backbone and preserve the livelihoods of the people who power our economy,” Mills said. “We’re laying the groundwork for job growth, energy security, and long-term stability.”

Mills emphasized that energy policy is as much about economic opportunity as it is about electricity generation.

“Energy policy isn’t just about the grid,” he said. “It’s about putting Kentuckians to work,” Mills said. “Today’s opening means more paychecks, more opportunity, and a stronger future for our region.”

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Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, represents the 4th Senate District, including Henderson, Hopkins, Union, and Webster Counties. He serves as Senate majority caucus chair and serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Families and Children; Health Services; Local Government; Natural Resources and Energy; and State Government. As a member of Senate majority leadership, he serves on the Legislative Research Commission. He also serves as co-chair of the Kentucky Housing Task Force.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Mills, please visit:

https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate104.jpg

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, 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.

“YOU BELONG HERE” TRIBECA NOMINEE GOT ITS START FROM SEED MONEY AND REGIONAL COLLABORATION EFFORT

Macaroni Art Productions Owners Rick Gomez and Steve Zhan, VisitLex President/CEO Mary Quinn Ramer, ‘You Belong Here’ Chef Ouita Michel, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, Wrigley Media Group Owner/CEO Misdee Wrigley, Secretary of Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Lindy Casebier, and Unbridled Films Producer/CEO Merry-Kay Poe, at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York June 9.

“YOU BELONG HERE” TRIBECA NOMINEE GOT ITS START FROM SEED MONEY AND REGIONAL COLLABORATION EFFORT

Transformational project sparks Kentucky film, farm-to-table focus 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 16, 2025)—A $10 million seed investment from the State Fiscal Recovery Fund of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in fiscal year 2021-2022 has blossomed into international recognition for Kentucky. The investment earned the commonwealth a coveted spot in the world-renowned Tribeca Film Festival and established Kentucky as a rising star in film production.

Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, was one of many Kentuckians excited to see “You Belong Here” debut at the film festival. Featuring Lexington Chef Ouita Michel, the pilot show celebrates Kentucky’s people, places, and food through storytelling and hands-on learning, incorporating the people and food from Central and southeastern Kentucky. It included many local chefs creating an inviting atmosphere in their eateries, including The Wrigley with owner and Chef Kristin Smith, in Corbin, Kentucky.

Stivers’ vision for regional collaboration prompted VisitLex President Mary Quinn Ramer to think more broadly than just Lexington. 'You Belong Here' received $500,000 in ARPA funding as part of a larger $75 million allocation to the Kentucky Tourism Cabinet during the 2022 budget session through House Bill 1. This funding was divided into four tranches, with the fourth specifically targeting multi-jurisdictional collaborative destination marketing projects, and “You Belong Here” was born.  

The Governor’s Office of Tourism, Arts & Heritage administered a competitive grant program requiring at least five collaborating tourism commissions, a multi-county marketing plan, and matching funds. Priority was given to projects with the potential for long-term transformational impacts. Recipients are required to provide at least 10 percent in matching funds and report annually on expenditures and outcomes.

Ramer took the seed money and collaborated with leaders from across the Commonwealth: Corbin, Somerset, Lexington, Louisville, Northern Kentucky, Bowling Green, Paducah, and Owensboro to create this uniquely Kentucky project.

“Bringing ‘You Belong Here’ to life was a tremendous opportunity to showcase Kentucky tourism through the lens of food, culture, and genuine Kentucky hospitality with one of our state’s greatest ambassadors, Ouita Michel, as host,” said Ramer. “I appreciate Senator Stivers’ vision for regional tourism development. Working together, we can drive great interest in and impact for the greater good of our Commonwealth.”

Stakeholders in this effort included the Kentucky legislature, VisitLex, the Agriculture Commissioner, and the Governor’s office. The project was especially appealing to all because it featured purchasing $10 million in Kentucky Proud products, highlighting a genuine farm-to-table approach.

Stivers expressed pride in the project’s success, “It’s exciting to see a Kentucky-grown project like ‘You Belong Here’ receive international acclaim. This is precisely the transformational impact the legislature envisioned when we invested in regional tourism initiatives years ago.”

With Kentucky now in the international spotlight and its farm-to-table movement showcased on a global stage, “You Belong Here” is a testament to the power of strategic investment in regional tourism and creative industries. If picked up by one of the prominent streaming platforms, it could turn into nine half-hour episodes.

For more information on Kentucky’s tourism initiatives and “You Belong Here,” visit [KentuckyTourism.com](https://www.kentuckytourism.com).

STIVERS ON THE DEATHS OF ONE MINNESOTA LEGISLATOR AND HER HUSBAND AND THE ATTEMPT ON ANOTHER LEGISLATOR AND HIS WIFE

STIVERS ON THE DEATHS OF ONE MINNESOTA LEGISLATOR AND HER HUSBAND AND THE ATTEMPT ON ANOTHER LEGISLATOR AND HIS WIFE

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 14, 2025) — The following is a statement from Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, upon the death of Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. The Hortmans were murdered overnight, and an attempt was made on the lives of Minnesota Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.

"My heart goes out to the family and dear friends of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. I condemn the person or persons involved in the despicable acts that resulted in their deaths. As we await the medical outcome of Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, I extend my heartfelt prayers and thoughts to their families and the rest of Minnesota.

"If we are to preserve and strengthen this country, we must choose respect over rage, justice over lawlessness, and unity over division.

"These heinous murders in Minnesota are unforgivable. The blatant disregard for human life and the taking up of arms for political gain is inexcusable.

"This extreme, violent behavior needs to stop, and the rhetoric ratcheted down. Disrespect for human life and the rule of law does not build up our extraordinary country, but only succeeds in tearing it down."

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Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, including Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. As of January 1, Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As Senate president, he is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. Stivers is also a member of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary. 

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg/

SEN. DENEEN ON FORT CAMPBELL HELICOPTER CRASH

SEN. DENEEN ON FORT 

CAMPBELL HELICOPTER CRASH

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 13, 2025) — The following is a statement from Sen. Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, regarding the June 11 helicopter crash at Fort Campbell that claimed the life of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin K. Wright, pilot for the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, and injured another. 

“The news from Fort Campbell Wednesday night is heartbreaking. One of our nation’s soldiers, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin K. Wright, lost his life, and others were injured following this tragic helicopter incident. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection, I join all Kentuckians in grieving with the Wright family, the Fort Campbell community, and the broader Army family.

“Wright is mourned not just by Kentucky, but by a grateful nation, one that owes its liberty to the courage and sacrifice of service members like him. We pray for the injured and for the strength of every loved one carrying the weight of this loss.

“This tragedy reminds us that the dangers our military faces are not confined to distant war zones. The call to serve carries risks even in training, preparation, and daily duty here at home.

“To every soldier at Fort Campbell and across our armed forces, know that Kentucky sees your sacrifice, honors your service, and stands firmly with you. Today, we remember and honor one of our own.”

Fort Campbell, located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, is home to the 101st Airborne Division and is vital to the nation's military readiness.

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Sen. Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, represents the 10th Senate District, which includes Hardin County and a portion of Jefferson County. He serves as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection, and serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Agriculture; Families and Children; and Judiciary. Deneen is a member of the Housing Task Force.  He also serves as co-chair of the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Subcommittee, a statutory body responsible for monitoring Kentucky’s education accountability system.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Deneen, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate110.jpg

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS APPLAUDS REPEAL OF BIDEN-HARRIS POWER PLANT REGULATIONS

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS APPLAUDS REPEAL OF BIDEN-HARRIS POWER PLANT REGULATIONS

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 12, 2025) — On Wednesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed repealing the Biden‑Harris administration’s regulations on power plants. Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, issued the following statement in support of the move.

"A critical course correction is finally here. The Biden-Harris regulations, born from political fantasy which increased costs to the consumer, were unrealistic in the face of soaring energy demands, including those from AI."

“In Kentucky, we know energy policy isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a kitchen‑table issue. Repealing these illogical mandates is a win for every family trying to pay their electric bill, every business owner managing costs, and every utility worker tasked with keeping our grid stable.

“Our country runs on reliability. Coal and gas remain essential to that equation, especially in Appalachia, which has been the backbone of America’s energy economy. Kentucky coal powered our nation through the Industrial Revolution, and today it stands ready to help power the digital and tech revolutions. 

“I commend President Trump and the EPA for recognizing energy security and affordability must come before dangerous political posturing.”

BACKGROUND

The Biden‑era rules, finalized in 2023, would have required coal and gas plants to adopt costly carbon‑capture or hydrogen co‑firing technology in the coming years—a mandate deemed unrealistic and likely to threaten baseload generation and drive utility rates higher.

Experts warned that the regulations could cause early plant retirements, reduce grid stability, and impose over $1 billion in annual compliance costs on energy producers and consumers.

Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, has long advocated for an all‑of‑the‑above energy strategy that keeps Kentuckians safe, employed, and economically secure, without sacrificing affordability or reliability.

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Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, which includes Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. As of January 1, Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As Senate President, Stivers chairs the Senate Committee on Committees and the Rules Committee and is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. He is also a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, membership, legislation, and more.

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

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for information on caucus members and to view press releases from our office.

REED RECOGNIZED FOR UPHOLDING JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE

REED RECOGNIZED FOR UPHOLDING

JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE

Senator honored for helping restrict unelected bureaucratic power and restoring impartiality in Kentucky’s courts

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 9, 2025) — Sen. Aaron Reed, R-Shelbyville, has been recognized by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) as a Policy Champion for his leadership in enacting Senate Bill (SB) 84, which reforms how courts interpret legal questions involving state agencies.

SB 84, which Reed co-sponsored, requires Kentucky courts to conduct de novo reviews of legal interpretations. This means judges must interpret the law independently without deferring to how a state agency interprets it. The legislation aligns with ALEC’s Judicial Deference Reform Act and marks a major step in reaffirming the judiciary’s exclusive role in legal interpretation.

Reed played a supporting role in overriding the Governor’s veto of the bill and helped lead the General Assembly to a supermajority vote in both chambers. His efforts reflect a commitment to strengthening the separation of powers, reducing executive overreach, and restoring judicial independence in Kentucky.

SB 84 aligns with ALEC’s Judicial Deference Reform Act and marks a major step in reaffirming the judiciary’s exclusive role in legal interpretation. The reform follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2024 Loper Bright decision, which prohibited federal courts from deferring to federal agency interpretations of law. In response, states across the country have moved to codify similar standards. Kentucky is now among several states leading the way in codifying this principle at the state level.

“I’m proud to stand alongside dedicated colleagues working daily to advance Kentucky’s future,” Reed said. “It’s also a privilege to be recognized by ALEC, an organization that champions practical, conservative solutions.”

Sens. Steve Rawlings, R-Burlington, Shelley Funke Frommeyer, R-Alexandria, Matt Nunn, R-Sadieville, Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, and Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, were also recognized for their role in SB 84’s passage. Rawlings was the legislation’s primary sponsor, having introduced the bill. 

The American Legislative Exchange Council is a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that advances policy grounded in limited government, free markets, and federalism. ALEC provides a platform for state lawmakers and policy experts to develop model legislation and share best practices. Its work focuses on strengthening democratic institutions, improving government accountability, and restoring constitutional boundaries between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

For more information, visit www.alec.org.

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Sen. Aaron Reed represents the 7th Senate District, including Anderson, Henry, and Shelby Counties, along with a portion of Jefferson County. He serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Agriculture; Education; Judiciary; and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection. He is also a member of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee and the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee. Reed is currently serving on the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force during the Interim.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort on Tuesday to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

ANTISEMITISM ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES IS OLD HATE REPACKAGED; KENTUCKY IS NO HAVEN FOR HATE

ANTISEMITISM ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES IS OLD HATE REPACKAGED; KENTUCKY IS NO HAVEN FOR HATE

By Sens. Lindsey Tichenor and Robby Mills

The 1964 Civil Rights Act marked a turning point in America. Title VI prohibits discrimination in federally funded activities, including education. That mission—safeguarding constitutional rights—remains as critical today.

Since the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre, antisemitism has surged globally. On many college campuses, Jewish students and Christian supporters of Israel have faced threats, harassment, and hostility. Yet university leaders have failed to defend them. We’ve seen repeated incidents targeting Jews on Kentucky college campuses, including in the last week. Last October, children ages 6–8 at the UK’s Chabad Jewish Center were harassed and accused of genocide by UK students.

While President Trump has championed federal civil rights protections in education, states like Arkansas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Kentucky are stepping up to address the crisis. Kentucky’s Jewish population may be small, but rising antisemitism signals broader societal decay. Ignoring it isn’t an option.

One alarming trend is the rise of antisemitism within far-left activism, especially on campuses. While antisemitism exists everywhere, many of the recent campus protests—often organized by progressive student groups—have featured rhetoric dehumanizing Jewish students and calling into question Israel’s right to exist. The Combat Antisemitism Movement reported a dramatic surge in campus incidents. No matter their philosophical stripe, radical ideologies can morph into open hostility when left unchecked.

If such slurs and harassment were aimed at Black students, university officials would have acted immediately. Yet the same institutions promoting “safe spaces” have done little to protect Jewish students from targeted abuse, not protected speech, but direct threats and intimidation.

Kentucky isn’t immune. What’s happening at elite coastal universities is spreading. Even on publicly funded campuses, chants like “from the river to the sea”—a call for Israel’s eradication have been heard.

In response, the Kentucky General Assembly passed Senate Joint Resolution 55, a strong bipartisan stand against campus antisemitism. It requires:

• Postsecondary institutions to adopt clear policies on antisemitism and notify students of their rights under Title VI;

• Equal recognition of Jewish student organizations;

• Disbandment of any campus group providing material support to terrorist organizations;

• Annual reporting of antisemitic incidents to the Council on Postsecondary Education.

SJR 55 passed the Senate 35-0 and the House 75-6 before being signed into law by Governor Beshear. The broad support reflects a shared commitment: antisemitism has no place in Kentucky.

Antisemitism is often called “the world’s oldest hatred”—and for good reason. From ancient scapegoating to medieval blood libels, forced conversions, and the Holocaust, it has persisted across centuries and continents. Today, some activists pose as morally enlightened, especially on college campuses. Yet, their chants of “intifada” and “from the river to the sea” echo the same dehumanizing logic behind organized massacres and gas chambers. There is nothing progressive about echoing the bigotry of—or sympathizing with—those whose mission is to eliminate the Jewish people or the state of Israel. What we’re witnessing is the oldest hate, repackaged.

Free speech is vital. But weaponizing it to intimidate and threaten, especially a targeted minority, cannot be tolerated.

Kentucky stands united. Universities must reflect that resolve.

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Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, represents Kentucky’s 6th Senate District. She serves as co-chair of the General Assembly’s legislative Kentucky-Israel Caucus. She was the primary sponsor of the 2025 Legislative Session’s Senate Joint Resolution 55.

Sen. Robby Mills, R-Henderson, serves as Senate Majority Caucus Chair. He is a member of the Kentucky-Israel Caucus. He co-sponsored the 2025 Legislative Session’s Senate Joint Resolution 55.  

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS ON SEN. ROBIN WEBB JOINING THE MAJORITY CAUCUS

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS ON SEN. ROBIN WEBB JOINING THE MAJORITY CAUCUS

Senate Majority Caucus reaches historic 32 members

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 30, 2025) — Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, released the following statement welcoming Sen. Robin Webb, the Senator from Carter, to the Senate Majority Caucus.

“On behalf of Senate Leadership and the entire Senate Majority, I welcome Sen. Robin Webb to our caucus. With her addition, the Senate Republican Caucus has reached a historic milestone of 32 members. This is a powerful sign that our proven approach to sound, conservative policymaking is winning hearts and minds across the state.

“Robin’s policy record speaks for itself. Whether it’s her advocacy for Kentucky coal and our energy independence, her support for responsible budgeting, or her commitment to rural infrastructure, workforce development, and judicial matters, she has long worked alongside Republican colleagues to advance the interests of eastern Kentucky.

“Her decision to officially join the Senate Majority Caucus is more than symbolic—it reinforces the strength of our shared policy priorities and our ongoing focus on delivering tangible results for eastern Kentucky and the whole state. 

“We value Robin’s voice and experience and are excited to have her as part of the Senate supermajority.”

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers return to Frankfort on Tuesday, June 3, to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

STIVERS APPOINTS SENATE TASK FORCE CHAIRS, MEMBERS FOR THE 2025 INTERIM

STIVERS APPOINTS SENATE TASK FORCE 

CHAIRS, MEMBERS FOR THE 2025 INTERIM

FRANKFORT, KY (May 27, 2025)—Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, has appointed task force chairs and members for the 2025 Interim. Task forces are typically formed from Senate and House resolutions.

The following are the five task forces for the 2025 Interim, with the Senate co-chair and Senate members identified.  

The Air Mobility and Aviation Economic Development Task Force will study and make recommendations regarding Innovations in aviation and advanced air mobility, actions other states are taking, economic development opportunities surrounding Advanced Air mobility and the aerospace industry, and actions and policies needed to support aviation-related economic development and both large and regional airports across the state. This task force directly resulted from Senate Joint Resolution 66, sponsored by Sen. Shelley Funke Frommeyer.  

Chair: Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London

Sen. Brandon Smith, R-Hazard 

Sen. Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield

Sen. Matt Nunn, R-Georgetown 

Sen. David Yates, D-Louisville 

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force is re-authorized for the 2025 Interim. The task force will continue examining how artificial intelligence shapes Kentucky’s economy, government, and education systems. Its focus includes promoting innovation, workforce development, cybersecurity, and responsible AI use, especially regarding data centers and other emerging tech industries.

Building on its 2024 work, the task force helped pass Senate Bill 4, sponsored by Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, Kentucky’s first AI framework. This framework created an AI Governance Committee, strengthened data privacy protections, and set standards to prevent deceptive political content.

Chair: Sen. Amanda Mays-Bledsoe, R-Lexington

Sen. Gex Williams, R-Verona

Sen. Mike Nemes, R-Shepherdsville

Sen. Steve Rawlings, R-Union

Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong, D-Louisville

The Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force will study, review, and make recommendations regarding current and future policy needs to address risk assessment, strategic planning, natural disaster prevention, response efforts, temporary housing, and relief strategies in Kentucky. This task force was outlined in Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 67, sponsored by Sen. Robin Webb, and House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 78, sponsored by Rep. John Blanton. 

Chair: Sen. Robin Webb, D-Grayson

Sen. Scott Madon, R-Pineville

Sen. Aaron Reed, R-Shelbyville

Sen. Jason Howell, R-Murray

Sen. Keturah Herron, D-Louisville

The Housing Task Force is re-established for the 2025 Interim. This task force will continue its work to identify and address the commonwealth’s ongoing housing challenges. Building on the progress made in 2024, the task force will examine issues impacting housing availability, affordability, and development across Kentucky.

Several legislative measures enacted in 2025 reflect the task force’s prior recommendations, including:

·    Senate Bill 129 expands tools to address vacant and abandoned properties, cuts regulatory burdens on residential development, and strengthens protections for landlords and property owners.

·    House Bill 160 promotes housing equity by preventing local governments from imposing unfair zoning restrictions on qualified manufactured homes.

·    House Bill 321 updates planning and zoning officials' training and accountability requirements, including mandatory education on housing policy impacts.

Chair: Senate Majority Caucus Chair Robby Mills, R-Henderson

Sen. Jared Carpenter, R-Berea

Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon

Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville

Sen. Gerald Neal, D-Louisville

The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Kentucky Task Force will explore ways to integrate the principles of the MAHA movement and review strategies to improve health outcomes in Kentuckians. This task force resulted from mirror legislation filed by Frommeyer in SCR 61 and Rep. Matt Lockett in HCR 41. 

Chair: Sen. Shelley Funke-Frommeyer, R-Alexandria

Sen. Donald Douglas, R-Nicholasville

Sen. Craig Richardson, R-Hopkinsville

Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville

Sen. Reggie Thomas, D-Lexington

Legislative task forces will meet monthly during the 2025 Interim. Visit legislature.ky.gov to learn more about each task force and to find meeting materials. 

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers return to Frankfort on Tuesday, June 3, to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

GIRDLER URGES VOLUNTEER HOUR REPORTING TO SUPPORT FEMA AID ACROSS DISASTER-DECLARED COUNTIES

GIRDLER URGES VOLUNTEER HOUR REPORTING TO

SUPPORT FEMA AID ACROSS DISASTER-DECLARED COUNTIES

Volunteer hours count toward FEMA in-kind match

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 28, 2025) — In the wake of the devastating May 16 tornado that struck southern Kentucky, claiming 19 lives, including 17 in London and one each in Somerset and Russell County, Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, is urging churches, civic groups, and volunteers assisting with recovery to document their service hours carefully.

President Donald J. Trump recently approved a major disaster declaration for six Kentucky counties: Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg, and Union Counties. This declaration paves the way for federal assistance to affected residents and communities, including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and low-interest loans for uninsured property losses.

“I’ve been in touch with Congressman Hal Rogers’s office, and they’ve made it clear how important these volunteer hours are,” Girdler said. “Volunteering time in any of the counties impacted by a disaster is more than just generosity—it helps offset costs for local governments as we work to rebuild our communities. I ask everyone to help spread the word and encourage others to track and report their hours.”

Under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, the value of donated resources—such as volunteer labor, supplies, and equipment—can offset the non-federal cost share of eligible projects. Properly documented volunteer efforts can directly reduce the financial burden on local governments during disaster recovery.

To ensure that volunteer contributions are recognized

• maintain a sign-in sheet with volunteer names, dates, hours worked, and a description of tasks performed, and

• submit these records to your county’s judge/executive’s office or emergency operations center.

For more information on applying for assistance and documenting volunteer efforts, visit FEMA.gov.

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Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, represents the 15th Senate District, including Pulaski and Russell Counties, which were impacted by the May 16 tornado.

MEDICAID OVERSIGHT AND ADVISORY BOARD ESTABLISHED, SENATE APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED

MEDICAID OVERSIGHT AND ADVISORY BOARD ESTABLISHED, SENATE APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 28, 2025) — In a step toward improving transparency and fiscal stewardship within Kentucky’s most extensive government program, the Kentucky General Assembly has officially authorized the Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Board (MOAB), established under House Bill 695 during the 2025 Legislative Session. In addition to creating the board, the legislation promotes work and community engagement for able-bodied adults, increases pharmacy and behavioral health spending transparency, and requires legislative approval for significant policy changes for a more accountable, sustainable approach to managing the state’s Medicaid system.

On Wednesday, Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, announced the following Senate appointments to MOAB. 

Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, has been named co-chair. Additional voting legislative members include Sen. Danny Carroll, R-Paducah, Sen. Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield, and Sen. Craig Richardson, R-Hopkinsville. 

“These appointments assure that the Senate has covered all bases,” Stivers said. “It’s important to have the right policy minds on this board. With Senators Adams, Carroll, Meredith, and Richardson, we have a great bench who have long prioritized the best interest of Kentucky’s children and vulnerable populations and has been at the forefront of health policy.” 

Additionally, Stivers has appointed Hollie Harris Phillips, CEO of Appalachian Regional Healthcare, and Dr. Joe Petrey, who represents the Dental Care Technical Advisory Committee, as the chamber’s two non-voting board members.

The authorization of MOAB reflects the General Assembly’s broader efforts to protect taxpayers, safeguard care for the most vulnerable, and ensure long-term sustainability of the Medicaid program. The board's creation comes amid growing concerns over increased spending, federal funding uncertainties, and expansion of Medicaid to populations beyond the program's original intent.

MOAB will be tasked with reviewing expenditures, contracts, and service delivery across Kentucky’s Medicaid program; monitoring implementation of key reforms, including managed care efficiency, behavioral health access, and pharmacy cost control; recommending policy changes to improve outcomes and reduce administrative waste; and evaluating federal changes that may impact Kentucky’s funding formula or eligibility thresholds.

“Medicaid now exceeds the size of the state’s entire general fund,” co-chair Adams said. “It demands the same level of oversight that helped rescue our pension systems from financial collapse. This board gives lawmakers a seat at the table and the tools to examine polices that serve Kentucky families who truly rely on this critical safety net.”

Discussions on Medicaid are ongoing in many spaces, including Washington, D.C., where policy reforms are being explored to control spending and improve the program's long-term sustainability. Federally, the program costs over $800 billion annually. 

Changes at the federal level could force difficult decisions at the state level. 

“We can’t afford to ignore the warning signs,” said Senate Budget Chair Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights, who will serve on the board in an ex-officio role along with House Budget Chair Jason Petrie, R-Elkton. “With the expansion of the Medicaid population in recent years, the program has continued to be stressed beyond its original intent. It has nearly doubled in the past 10 years without a corresponding improvement in Kentuckians’ health. This board will help protect the essential safety net by focusing on those who need it. It will also better enable us to be mindful of the taxpayer dollars that make the program possible.”

MOAB marks a critical step toward safeguarding Kentucky’s fiscal health and preserving Medicaid services for the elderly, disabled, and working families who rely on it.

The board is composed of 10 voting legislative members and 13 non-voting members. Voting members include lawmakers from both chambers—five appointed by House leadership and five by Senate leadership, with specific seats reserved for chairs or vice chairs of key health-related committees. Two co-chairs lead the board, one designated by the Speaker of the House and one by the Senate President. The 13 non-voting members include state officials, health care experts, and Medicaid providers.

Legislative committees, including statutory committees like MOAB, will meet monthly during the 2025 Interim, which begins on Tuesday, June 3. Visit legislature.ky.gov to learn more about legislative committees and to find meeting materials. 

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Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees, and additional resources.

Lawmakers return to Frankfort on Tuesday, June 3, to start the 2025 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation, and begin evaluating proposals for the 2026 Regular Session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 6.

The full 2025 Interim Calendar is available here. A weekly schedule with meeting times, topics, and agendas can be viewed at legislature.ky.gov/LegislativeCalendar.

Live coverage of interim legislative meetings is available at KET.org/legislature and on the LRC YouTube channel.

You can follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky. For additional member information and press releases, visit KYSenateRepublicans.com.

SEN. AMANDA MAYS BLEDSOE CELBRATES CONGRESS’ PASSAGE OF THE ‘TAKE IT DOWN ACT'

STATEMENT RELEASE:
SEN. AMANDA MAYS BLEDSOE CELBRATES CONGRESS’ PASSAGE OF THE ‘TAKE IT DOWN ACT'

Applauds First Lady Melania Trump's advocacy, renews call for further action in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 29, 2025) — Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, R-Lexington, issued a statement following Congress’ approval of the Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks Act (TAKE IT DOWN Act), backed by First Lady Melania Trump. The TAKE IT DOWN Act prohibits the nonconsensual online publication of intimate images—including real and AI-generated depictions—and requires online platforms to remove such content within 48 hours of a victim’s request. Violators face mandatory restitution and criminal penalties, including fines and prison time. The law also bans threats to publish intimate images and requires covered platforms to create a formal process for victims to request removal.

"I’m deeply grateful to Congress for its overwhelming bipartisan support of the TAKE IT DOWN Act, and to First Lady Melania Trump for her unwavering advocacy in this important fight to protect the dignity, privacy, and safety of every American. I’m also especially grateful to Kentucky’s own Congressman Brett Guthrie, chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, for his leadership in helping shepherd the TAKE IT DOWN Act through the House. His work has been critical to advancing protections for victims of digital exploitation at the national level.

“As a mother and a legislator, I know how urgent it is to modernize our laws to meet the threats of a rapidly changing digital world, especially when it comes to protecting our children and families from image-based abuse and exploitation.

“Earlier this year, I introduced Senate Bill 7, the Right of Publicity Act, to further confront these very dangers here in Kentucky. Although the bill passed the Senate with unanimous support, it ultimately didn’t become law. But its message remains clear: no Kentuckian, whether a public figure, an ordinary citizen, or, heaven forbid, a child, should ever have to fight to reclaim ownership of their image. Like the TAKE IT DOWN Act, it recognizes that AI-driven manipulation such as deepfakes and the unauthorized use of a person’s likeness demand swift and serious penalties.

“Congress’ action builds on the momentum we’re seeing at the state level. It sends a powerful, united message: personal privacy and human dignity must be protected in our fast-moving digital world.

“I appreciate the leadership shown nationally by the First Lady, and I’m proud that Kentucky is helping lead this conversation. Together, we’re making it clear that every person deserves control over their own image and the basic respect it represents."

___

BACKGROUND

Senate Bill 7, the Right of Publicity Act, aimed to protect Kentuckians from unauthorized commercial use of their likeness—especially AI-generated images—and allow victims to seek damages. It would have given individuals stronger control over their image and the right to seek financial damages if their likeness was exploited for profit. Find Bledsoe’s remarks on Senate Bill 7 here via our YouTube Channel at the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLG7MUYEMpc

The bill followed Bledsoe’s broader work on AI policy, including Senate Bill 4, which set standards for how Kentucky agencies use AI.The bill creates new guidelines for how state agencies can use AI technologies. But Bledsoe has been clear: protecting people from AI misuse can’t stop at the state level. She has consistently insisted Congress must take action on AI as it relates to the private sector, where gaps in federal law and inconsistencies across states can leave Americans vulnerable to exploitation.

Kentucky has already led the way in fighting digital abuse. In 2018, the General Assembly passed a law making the non-consensual sharing of intimate images—known as "revenge porn"—a crime. In March, Sen. Julie Raque Adams’ Senate Bill 73 was passed, which when enacted will make sexual extortion, or "sextortion," a felony offense. The law also requires schools to raise awareness about these dangers among students and families.

Together, these efforts show Kentucky’s deep commitment to protecting dignity, privacy, and safety in a rapidly changing digital world, a commitment that is now being reinforced nationally through the TAKE IT DOWN Act.

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Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, R-Lexington, represents the 12th Senate District, including Boyle, Mercer, and Woodford Counties and part of Fayette County. She serves as vice chair of both the Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee and the Senate Families and Children Committee. In 2024, she co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Task Force and served on the 2024-26 Budget Preparation and Submission statutory committee.

STATE SENATOR BRANDON STORM NAMED TO NCSL YOUTH JUSTICE FELLOWS PROGRAM

STATE SENATOR BRANDON STORM NAMED 

TO NCSL YOUTH JUSTICE FELLOWS PROGRAM

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 21, 2025) —Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has been selected for the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) 2025 cohort of the Youth Justice Fellows Program and will join a national network of state lawmakers advancing youth justice policy and reform.

Supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the prestigious program offers state legislators and legislative staff the opportunity to engage in peer learning on youth justice issues, policy trends, and research-based solutions.

Storm has championed legislation aimed at improving public safety while supporting commonsense reforms in the juvenile justice system. A longtime advocate for Kentucky’s families, he has worked to ensure that the commonwealth’s justice system balances accountability with rehabilitation, particularly for youth impacted by trauma, substance use, or poverty.

“I’m honored to be selected for this program and look forward to learning from national experts and fellow legislators,” Storm said. “Kentucky’s justice system should protect our communities while recognizing the potential in every young person. This fellowship offers a valuable opportunity to identify ways we can strengthen policies here in Kentucky to give kids a better path forward.”

Eighteen legislators from across the country have been chosen to participate in the program. Fellows are selected based on their leadership and expertise in youth justice policy. The 2025 cohort will join an established community of policymakers focused on collaboration and evidence-based solutions.

Over the year-long program, participants will attend in-person meetings with experts and peers, develop individualized policy action plans, and receive technical assistance from NCSL staff.

To learn more about the NCSL Youth Justice Fellows Program, visit: https://www.ncsl.org/civil-and-criminal-justice/youth-justice-fellows-program.   

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves legislators and staff from states, commonwealths, and territories. It provides research, technical assistance, and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues. It is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the federal system.

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Sen. Brandon J. Storm, R-London, represents the 21st Senate District, including Casey, Lincoln, Laurel, and Rockcastle Counties. He serves as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and as Senate co-chair of the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council. Storm is also a member of the Senate Committees on Transportation and on Banking and Insurance. He serves as a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice. A 2023 esteemed Henry Toll Fellowship graduate, Storm was the only Kentuckian to participate in the program. 

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 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, 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. Visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for information on caucus members and to view press releases from our office.

REAL ID DEADLINE NEARS: HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

OP-ED:

REAL ID DEADLINE NEARS: HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Senator Jimmy Higdon

Kentuckians, it’s time for a reminder about the upcoming REAL ID deadline on May 7. This deadline has been talked about for years, but is finally nearing. As Senate Transportation chair, I’ve been involved in this process. I know it’s not been enjoyable for many people. Working with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and Secretary Jim Gray, I know how important information is on this topic and driver's licensing services. So, before the deadline, I’m sharing helpful information you might consider.

If you plan to board a domestic flight, visit a U.S. military base, or enter certain federal facilities after May 7, you’ll need a federally accepted form of ID. The good news is you have options. A REAL ID is not required for everyone.

If you do not plan to fly commercially, enter a military installation like Fort Knox, or visit certain federal buildings such as the White House, you do not need a REAL ID. This federal—not state—requirement originated from national security efforts following 9/11. You do not need a REAL ID to access Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, enter a Social Security office, or visit a federal courthouse.

Many assume they must get a REAL ID driver’s license to comply with the federal rule, but that’s not the only way to meet the requirement. In fact, there are alternatives—such as a military ID or a regular U.S. passport—that already meet federal standards. For example, Military retirees who visit Fort Knox have a military ID, which serves as a REAL ID. 

One lesser-known option is the passport card, which can be a great solution depending on your needs. I want to thank Sen. Lindsey Tichenor for recently sharing this information.

If you’re considering what works best for you, here’s a breakdown of what each ID option offers:

1. Passport card

• Cost: $65 for first-time applicants, $30 for renewals

• Validity: 10 years for adults, five years for minors

• Perks: Also valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean

• Where to get it: Available through many local post offices (ask yours first). 

Note: A full U.S. Passport book is also REAL ID compliant and valid for international air travel. Nearly 30 percent of Kentuckians already have a passport.

2. Standard driver’s license/ID card (The one many of us already have)

• Cost: $21.50 (four years) or $43 (eight years)

• Validity: four or eight years

• Limitations: Not REAL ID compliant—so after May 7, it can’t be used to board a domestic flight or enter restricted federal facilities

• Still valid for everyday use in Kentucky

3. REAL ID driver’s license/ID card (The new federal standard)

• Cost: $24 (four years) or $48 (eight years)

• Validity: four or eight years

• Where to get it: Regional driver’s licensing facilities (appointments may be required)

Many of you have contacted me about the inconvenience of renewing a driver’s license these days. The process has frustrated many between the new vision testing requirement and long wait times. That’s why I want to ensure everyone knows a passport or passport card is a valid alternative to a REAL ID for flying within the U.S.—and it can be easier to get in some cases.

If you don’t travel internationally but still need an ID that works at airports, a passport card could be the best solution. It’s affordable, lasts a decade, and doesn’t require a trip to a driver’s licensing office.

How to get a passport card or passport

• Renewing? You can apply online at travel.state.gov

• First time? Visit a local post office with:

• proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport)

• A government-issued photo ID

• A completed DS-11 application form

I’ve always believed in keeping Kentuckians informed, especially about important deadlines and decisions that impact everyday life. With May 7 approaching, now is the time to review your options and pick the ID that makes the most sense for your travel and budget needs. Whether you choose a REAL ID, a passport card, or stick with a standard driver’s license, the goal is to make sure you’re prepared. If you have questions, visit drive.ky.gov for more details on REAL ID or travel.state.gov for passport card information.

Kentuckians like to be prepared—so let’s get ahead of this deadline.

Just to remind you, you can still renew online or by mail. Legislation passed during this session to help with the backlog at regional driver’s licensing offices. One of the most promising is a new law, taking effect in late June, that allows qualified third parties, such as AAA, to help with license renewals. 

The federal government may push the compliance deadline back again. However, we should all operate as if the May 7 deadline will hold.

SEN. MATT NUNN NAMED TO NATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

PHOTO CUTLINE: Sen. Matt Nunn speaks on the Senate Floor. Feb. 28, 2025. Photo Credit: David Hargis, Photographer, Public Information Office, Legislative Research Commission.

SEN. MATT NUNN NAMED 

TO NATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Freshman senator selected for prestigious national program recognizing emerging state legislative leaders

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 22, 2025)—Sen. Matt Nunn, R-Sadieville, has been selected to participate in the 21st Annual Emerging Legislative Leaders Program at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, a prestigious national initiative sponsored by the State Legislative Leaders Foundation (SLLF). The program identifies rising stars in state government and brings together 57 legislators from 47 states for intensive training focused on public policy, leadership, and collaborative governance.

 “This is a well-deserved honor for Sen. Nunn, who came in as a freshman lawmaker, earned broad bipartisan support, and made an immediate positive impact on policy,” said Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester. “We look forward to his continued growth as a legislative leader and trust this well-earned experience will serve him and his constituents in the 17th Senate District well.”

 Nunn’s invitation to the SLLF program follows a highly productive first session in the Kentucky Senate, where he championed legislation that promotes fiscal responsibility, curbs bureaucratic overreach, and reinforces the integrity of public institutions. His work advanced policies to protect the financial interests of retirees, increase transparency in governance, and strengthen legislative oversight, which reflect his results-driven, conservative approach to policymaking.

 SLLF is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that supports the professional development of state legislative leaders across the nation. Its Emerging Legislative Leaders Program mentors promising first- and second-term lawmakers from all political backgrounds. Through university partnerships and issue-neutral programming, SLLF promotes collaboration, integrity, and respect for the legislative institution, welcoming Republicans, Democrats, and independents alike.

 “I remain grateful to the people of my district for trusting me to be their voice in Frankfort. It’s not something I take for granted,” Nunn said. “To be among this small group of leaders is an honor, and I’m excited to see how it will help me grow as a lawmaker.”

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 Sen. Matt Nunn represents the 17th Senate District, including Grant and Scott Counties, southern Kenton County, and northwestern Fayette County. Nunn is co-chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development, Natural Resources, and Environmental Protection. He is also a member of the Senate Committees on Economic Development, Tourism, and Labor; Appropriations and Revenue; Licensing and Occupations; Agriculture; and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection. Additionally, Nunn serves on the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee.  

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the recently concluded 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, membership, legislation, and more.

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

SENATE MAJORITY LEADERS CALL FOR DELAY OF REAL ID DEADLINE

PDF CUTLINE: The April 17 letter to Secretary Noem from Sen. Jimmy Higdon and Senate Majority Caucus Members. View the letter by CLICKING HERE.

SENATE MAJORITY LEADERS CALL 

FOR DELAY OF REAL ID DEADLINE

Sen. Jimmy Higdon leads effort urging Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to postpone May 7 implementation

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 23, 2025)—Senate Transportation Committee Chair Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, joined by 27 members of the Senate Majority Caucus, has sent a formal letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem requesting a delay of the federal REAL ID enforcement date, currently set for May 7. The letter is a direct response to growing concerns from Kentuckians across the state who are still unable to access driver’s licensing services due to limited appointment availability and long lines for walk-ins. 

 “This simple request is to protect Kentuckians from bureaucratic burdens,” Higdon said. “Rural residents, seniors, and families still have hurdles in front of them, and in a lot of cases, may not be aware of their options. Only about 40 percent of our residents have a REAL ID, but I would also like more time to help Kentuckians understand that they may not need a REAL ID. Kentucky has made a good faith effort, but we just aren’t there yet.”

 In a recent op-ed, Higdon emphasized that while the May 7 REAL ID deadline is quickly approaching, many Kentuckians may not need a REAL ID at all, depending on their travel and access needs. He clarified that standard driver’s licenses will still be valid for daily use within the state, and alternatives like U.S. passports or passport cards also meet federal requirements for air travel and access to secure facilities. Higdon encouraged residents to review their options early and choose the form of identification that best fits their circumstances.

 Higdon and members of the Senate Majority Caucus noted in their letter that the recently approved Senate Bill 43 will not take effect until June 27. It leaves a gap of more than a month after the current federal deadline. The bill allows third-party vendors to assist with license renewals. 

 The senators delivered the letter amid ongoing challenges that continue to hinder Kentuckians' ability to obtain a REAL ID. Regional licensing offices are now open on one Saturday a month.

 Kentucky became REAL ID compliant in 2019 through legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2017. Because the state was the only one administering licensing through local circuit court clerks at the time, rather than a centralized Department of Motor Vehicles, it transitioned to a regional licensing model. The circuit court clerks' offices were also not technologically equipped to handle the federally mandated responsibility. While the change to a regional model modernized operations, it created new frustrations for Kentuckians. 

 Higdon and the Kentucky General Assembly have taken steps to improve access and expand services, such as Senate Bill 43.

 According to recent data analysis by CBS News, at least 17 states are less than 50 percent compliant with the federal law, and 30 states are less than 70 percent compliant. At approximately 40 percent, Kentucky is ahead of states like New Jersey (17 percent), Pennsylvania (26 percent), and Washington and Maine (27 percent). New York and California are at 43 percent and 55 percent compliance, respectively. 

 “Kentucky isn’t alone—many states are still working toward full compliance, and in some cases, we’re in better shape or right on par with several states,” Higdon said. “We’re not asking for anything out of the ordinary in our request letter, but simply a continuation of the same thoughtful flexibility previously granted when readiness concerns have been brought forward. An additional up to two years can give time for improvements already in motion to take effect. 

 “We want Kentuckians to know that their concerns are valid and that their elected officials are doing what we can to make this whole process easier.”

 The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as part of post-9/11 national security reforms and established federal standards for state-issued identification. Initially set for enforcement in 2008, the deadline has been postponed multiple times due to state-level resistance, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other implementation delays across several states.

For more information on REAL ID requirements and alternative documentation, visit drive.ky.gov or travel.state.gov. 

A copy of the Senate Caucus letter to Secretary Noem is available here. Copies have also been shared with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the General Assembly’s legislative caucuses, and members of Kentucky’s federal delegation.

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS APPLAUDS PRESIDENT TRUMP'S EXECUTIVE ORDER

SENATE PRESIDENT STIVERS APPLAUDS

PRESIDENT TRUMP'S EXECUTIVE ORDER

Coal-fired plants will once again ignite Kentucky’s economy

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 8, 2025)—The following is a statement from Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, regarding President Donald Trump’s executive order on Unleashing American Energy.

“America's energy demands are only increasing. I'm encouraged by President Donald Trump's executive order to expedite and streamline the permitting and processing of coal-fired plants in Kentucky once again.

“The incentive package now in place will allow Kentucky to take full advantage of an all-of-the-above energy approach once again, and provide for Kentucky's growing energy demands right here in the commonwealth. Kentucky is uniquely positioned to rejuvenate and refurbish our existing coal-fired plants, and get them operational quickly for maximum output. 

“This is a ray of hope for our existing coal-fired plants, the eastern and western Kentucky minefields and the hard-working Kentuckians seeking a second chance at coal for their livelihood.

“I'm pleased President Trump invited me to participate in this significant announcement and change in policy. I'm excited about the potential to expand Kentucky's energy production and become a more aggressive energy exporter to states with even greater demand."

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Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, which includes Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. As of January 1, Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As Senate President, Stivers chairs the Senate Committee on Committees and the Rules Committee and is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. He is also a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of President Stivers, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate125.jpg.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, membership, legislation, and more.

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

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for information on caucus members and to view press releases from our office.

SEN. MATT DENEEN PROVIDES FLOODING UPDATE FROM HARDIN COUNTY

SEN. MATT DENEEN PROVIDES FLOODING

UPDATE FROM HARDIN COUNTY

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 6, 2025) – In response to widespread flooding across Hardin County, Sen. Matt Deneen issued an update Sunday afternoon after spending the past two days coordinating with local officials, mayors, and emergency response personnel. Deneen has described conditions in parts of the county as “ground zero,” pointing to extensive flooding in Colesburg, White Mills, and West Point.

“White Mills is underwater, Colesburg has been breached, farmland is flooded, and West Point is on high alert,” Deneen said. “This is one of the worst flooding events I’ve seen in our region, and I dare say it is a once-in-a-generation situation here in Hardin County. I’m incredibly grateful to our first responders who have stepped up in every direction. Their work has already saved lives, but the most effective way to save lives is for everyone to make smart and cautious decisions as floodwaters remain high.”

Deneen has been actively monitoring the evolving situation and is scheduled to meet with the Hardin County Emergency Management Director as tri-county response efforts continue. Emergency crews have responded to multiple water rescues recently, involving drivers who attempted to bypass barricades and drive through flooded roads.

“The biggest message we need to get out right now is simple: turn around, don’t drown,” Deneen said. “One foot of moving water can carry a vehicle off the road. We’ve had too many close calls because folks underestimated the danger. Check on your family, friends, and neighbors and tell them the travel risk right now is not worth it.”

At one point during the peak of the rainfall, floodwaters reached both emergency lanes of Interstate 65, a critical transportation corridor for the region. In addition to the structural damage, local governments have exhausted their supply of barricades and signage, prompting requests for additional resources to keep roads safely marked. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is helping with this.

As of the most recent update, the following roads remain closed in Hardin County due to high water.

·     Akers School Road

·     Amish Road

·     Bacon Creek Road

·     Boone Road

·     Buckles Road

·     Cave Road

·     Cecilia Smith Mill Road

·     Constantine Road

·     Gaither Station Road

·     Hall Road

·     Horseshoe Bend Road

·     Methodist Street

·     Miller Road

·     Nolin Road

·     Payne Road

·     South Black Branch Road

·     Thomas Road

·     Tunnel Hill Road

·     Upper Colesburg Road

·     Valley Creek Lane

·     Webb Mill Road

·     Wimp Lane

Residents are strongly urged to monitor updates through official sources.

·     Hardin County Government: www.hardincountyky.gov

·     Elizabethtown City Government: City Facebook Page

·     National Weather Service Flood Safety Tips: weather.gov/safety/flood

Deneen pledged to remain in close communication with local officials as damage assessments continue and additional support is requested from state and federal agencies. 

“This is when neighbors help neighbors,” he added. “We’ve been through tough times before, and we’ll get through this—but everyone needs to stay alert and safe.”

Media interested in connecting with Sen. Matt Deneen for updates from Hardin County should contact Dustin Isaacs at 502-682-2591. 

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Sen. Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, represents the 10th Senate District, including Hardin County and part of Jefferson County. Deneen serves as chair of the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee and co-chairs the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Committee. He is also a member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture, Families and Children, and Judiciary. Additionally, Deneen serves on the 2024-26 Budget Preparation and Submission Committee.

Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for more information on Senate Majority Caucus members and the 2025 Legislative Session, including committees, membership, legislation, and more.

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