The Kentucky General Assembly has wrapped up the 10th legislative week of the 2024 Regular Session.
This week marked the session’s inaugural veto with House Bill (HB) 18. Both House and Senate majorities swiftly united to override the veto, emphasizing their commitment to safeguard property owner rights. Now, with provisions from Senate Bill 25 and an emergency clause, HB 18 becomes law.
The pace quickened this week with several measures seeking Senate approval:
SB 2 strengthens Kentucky’s school safety initiatives by creating the Kentucky Guardians Program, which allows veterans and retired law enforcement officials to enhance student defense. Guardians collaborate with school officers, wearing a unique uniform and carrying concealed weapons. Local boards decide their hiring, fostering cooperation with law enforcement. The initiative forms a comprehensive team of counselors, psychologists, and mental health providers, addressing trauma, mental health, and suicide awareness.
SB 8 reforms the Kentucky Board of Education selection process, moving from gubernatorial appointments to voter elections across seven districts. The change promotes board balance, prevents unilateral political appointments, and promotes a more representative approach.
SB 27 addresses drug manufacturers’ restrictions in the 340B program, prohibiting discriminatory practices and empowering the attorney general to investigate violations. The bill ensures fair access to discounted drugs for health care providers.
SB 111 requires therapy coverage for stuttering in Medicaid and private health plans, prohibits limits, and allows telehealth services.
SB 147 establishes state-wide standards for adult-oriented businesses, ensures child safety, and prohibits explicit performances on government properties.
SB 153 exempts individuals 70 or older from jury service and simplifies the qualification process.
SB 164 streamlines professional licensing, recognizes equivalencies for trade jobs and increases workforce participation.
SB 194 enables insurers to communicate electronically with individuals covered under employer-sponsored group health insurance. Employers can consent to electronic delivery, but individuals must have the option to opt-out annually. The provisions apply to contracts entered or renewed on or after the Act’s effective date.
SB 199 SB 199 aids the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet with the update of the Kentucky Automated Vehicle Information System (KAVIS) system, streamlines out-of-state commercial drivers licensing, and allows for a nationally accepted used car valuation for used cars.
SB 202 enhances rehabilitation, allowing violence reduction program participation as parole or probation conditions.
SB 215 prevents the enforcement of California-like air emissions standards for electric vehicles in Kentucky.
SB 240 removes barriers for foster families in Kentucky by allowing them to qualify for child care benefits while working remotely. This addresses the current requirement that they work outside the home for at least 20 hours a week.
SB 244 changes ballot order determination to a draw, ensuring fairness for all candidates.
SB 249 requires sex offenders to display full names on social media, establishing penalties for non-compliance.
SB 255 modernizes social worker services with telehealth standards, ensuring client privacy and communication.
SB 265 modifies the Option 7 alternative teacher certification, removing GRE or CASE requirements and granting provisional certification.
SB 349 forms the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission which will develop a comprehensive strategy to meet Kentucky’s growing energy demands.
Senate Joint Resolution 149 directs the Energy and Environment Cabinet to guide entities on best practices for PFAS discharges into Kentucky’s water supply.
Find more on these bills online at Legislature.ky.gov and visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for news releases from the Senate Majority Caucus.
You can find the status of legislation by calling 866-840-2835 or receive legislative meeting information at 800-633-9650. You can also watch and follow legislative activity at KET.org/legislature and Legislature.ky.gov.
It’s a privilege to represent you in Frankfort. Please contact my office if I can assist you in any way. You can email me at mike.nemes@lrc.ky.gov or reach my office toll-free at 1-800-372-7181.