Week 11 of the 2024 Regular Session saw significant developments in Kentucky’s legislative landscape, notably with the Senate presenting its version of the biennial budget.
Each of the following budget bills passed in the Senate this week and will now be discussed at length in what is called a free conference committee, a small group made up of House and Senate members.
House Bill (HB) 1 focuses on one-time investments in critical areas like infrastructure, economic development, and public safety, with the Senate introducing additional allocations to enhance Kentucky’s future. These include funds for road improvements, biomedical excellence, and support for state employee retirees.
HB 6 reflects a collaborative effort towards a conservative and fiscally responsible state budget. The Senate’s proposal within HB 6 emphasizes increased funding across education, corrections, health care, and veterans’ services, aiming to address key needs and stimulate economic growth while maintaining fiscal prudence.
Additionally, HB 263 appropriates funds for the operations and maintenance of Kentucky’s legislative branch, ensuring the continuity of legislative functions and effective governance within the state. Through strategic budget allocation, the Kentucky General Assembly aims to uphold its responsibilities and sustain operations in governing the commonwealth.
Free conference committee meetings will be live streamed on KET.org/legislature beginning on Monday, March 18.
Key Senate bills passed this week include:
SB 128 broadens youth employment opportunities by enabling nonprofit organizations to establish tailored work programs for minors aged 12 or 13.
Senate Joint Resolution 170 directs the Council on Postsecondary Education to study expanding post-baccalaureate programs at Kentucky’s comprehensive universities.
SB 232 introduces changes to decision-making processes regarding public school buildings in Kentucky.
SB 280 seeks to ensure equitable reimbursement rates for Level II Trauma Rural Residency Programs in Kentucky by granting collaborating centers with universities reimbursement parity with university hospitals. It also amends definitions under KRS 205.6405 and directs the establishment of a Medicaid directed payment program to enhance reimbursement rates for qualifying hospitals in counties with high Medicaid enrollment. Furthermore, the bill mandates General Assembly approval for hospital acquisitions or constructions by specified universities and affiliates.
SB 317 establishes property rights for individuals in their name, voice, or likeness.
SB 319 aims to strengthen support for victims of crime.
SB 349 establishes the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission to evaluate Kentucky’s energy needs and oversee power plant retirements.
SB 368 mandates informing the Kentucky Department for Housing, Buildings, and Construction about a property’s use.
House bills receiving final passage this week include:
HB 2 Propose a new section of the Constitution of Kentucky to authorize the General Assembly to provide for financial support for the education of students outside of the public school system. If approved by the General Assembly, the language will appear on the November ballot for voters to ratify or reject.
HB 5 known as the Safer Kentucky Act, will require judges to accommodate parent’s schedules so they may be present for their children’s hearings. It will prohibit prosecutors from “stacking” similar charges on top of a carjacking charge and will prohibit a criminal defendant who received assistance from a charitable bail organization from getting similar assistance if he or she commits another crime. HB 5 also prohibits the use of deadly force solely to protect property and provides penalties to school personnel who fail to report suspected criminal conduct at school.
HB 15 addresses consumer data privacy in Kentucky and establishes a consumer privacy fund with the Office of the Attorney General with exclusive authority to enforce those rights.
HB 281 adds the Division of Compliance and the Division of Sports Wagering to the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, removing compliance from the duties of the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering.
HB 447 will permit school districts to use district-owned, leased, or contracted passenger transportation vehicles to transport students to and from school and approved school activities under an alternative cost-efficient transportation.
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
