The Kentucky General Assembly is charging ahead into the next segment of the 2024 budget session. After hours of floor debate, the House passed its version of the biennial budget on Thursday night. The Senate will now carefully review its contents while maintaining momentum with committee and chamber proceedings.
In the Kentucky Senate, our role is unique, particularly during the 60-day budget session. The Constitution of Kentucky clearly outlines any revenue-raising measures, to originate with the state House of Representatives. Traditionally, before the House submits a two-year state budget proposal, the executive branch provides its recommendations. After these initial proposals, the Senate then makes its contribution.
This process is beneficial as it allows the Senate to thoroughly analyze and gain an understanding of the proposals. Crucially, it allows us to define our priorities and establish a clear vision for the allocation of taxpayer dollars. This constitutionally-mandated budgeting approach ensures the Senate remains focused on a disciplined and well-informed assessment. You can expect a thoughtful and sound approach from me and my colleagues as we craft our version of the commonwealth’s two-year state budget, road plan, and other related appropriation and revenue bills.
This week, I addressed the Senate on a subject close to my heart—cardiovascular health. Senate Resolution (SR) 103 designates February 2024 as American Heart Month and brings crucial awareness to cardiovascular diseases and the importance of understanding cholesterol levels. During my address, I highlighted alarming statistics, such as nearly 94 million adults in the United States dealing with high cholesterol, and heart disease causing 386 deaths per 100,000 adults aged 35 and over in Kentucky. I appreciate my Senate colleagues’ support in endorsing initiatives to improve cardiovascular health and urging the allocation of resources to address these pressing issues.
The Senate passed a variety of bills this week, covering topics such as elections, bourbon industry regulations and transportation reforms. The following bills were approved and now move to the House for consideration:
- SB 46 – Windshield Tinting: Brings relief to Kentucky drivers by allowing tinting on front windshields, benefiting those who spend long hours in vehicles. The measure, following federal safety standards, aims to potentially reduce cancer rates caused by UV rays and enhance driver comfort.
- SB 75 – Capitol Access: Reopens a portion of Capital Avenue in Frankfort, providing access to residents and tourists. The bill allows emergency responders and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to manage traffic on state Capitol grounds, addressing security concerns and reducing the risk of pedestrian injury.
- SB 80 – Election Integrity: Strengthens election integrity by refining Kentucky’s voter ID laws. The bill removes student or employee IDs and credit or debit cards as identification options, aligning with previous legislation focused on reasonable voter access.
- SB 81 – Higher Education Boards Alteration: Alters the makeup of KHEAA and KHESLC to meet out-of-state regulations, ensuring continued support for student loans. The bill addresses fingerprinting and financial disclosure requirements for board members, preventing ex-officio members from meeting stringent out-of-state security requirements.
- SB 125 – Off-Highway Vehicle Programs: Creates economic opportunities for eastern Kentucky by extending the ability for local governments to start off-highway vehicle pilot programs. The bill expands the definition of local government, opening the program to the entire state.
Thank you for your continued engagement in the 2024 Regular Session. Be sure to check out our website at www.KYSenateRepublicans.com to find press releases, member information, and other useful resources from the Senate Majority Caucus.
It is a privilege to represent you in Frankfort. Please feel free to share your thoughts and stay connected throughout the session by reaching out to my office at (502)-564-8100 or via email at Stephen.Meredith@lrc.ky.gov. Additionally, you can stay informed and follow legislative activities through live broadcasts on www.KET.org/legislature and by visiting www.Legislature.ky.gov.
Sen. Steve Meredith, R-Leitchfield
