General Assembly Weekly Report – February 6th, 2026

KACP KENTUCKY GENERAL ASSEMBLY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Friday, February 6^th marked the 23^rd day of the 60-day legislative session. To date, 763 bills have been introduced.

KACP PRIORITIES

 KLEFPF Increase/budget

The House has submitted its version of the budget, HB 500, which includes a 2% increase for KLEFPF applicable to each year of the biennium. KACP will advocate for the inclusion of this increase in the Senate’s forthcoming budget version.

[KY] HB500 Kentucky State/Executive Branch Budget, 2026-2028

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Comprehensive appropriations and conditions for Kentucky’s state government, establishing funding levels, program allocations, capital project authorizations, debt service, and operational guidelines for fiscal years 2026-2027 and 2027-2028.

SUMMARY: This bill enacts the Kentucky State/Executive Branch biennial budget for FY 2026-2028, appropriating funds from the General Fund, Road Fund, Federal Funds, Restricted Funds, Bond Funds, and Tobacco Settlement Funds to support state agencies, programs, and capital projects. It establishes salary increases for state employees, sets employer retirement contribution rates, details allocations for education (including SEEK, higher education, and scholarships), health and family services (including Medicaid and public health), justice and public safety, infrastructure, and more. The bill also outlines provisions for fund transfers, spending restrictions, reporting requirements, and budget reduction plans in case of revenue shortfalls. It includes mechanisms for the use of surplus funds, special allocations from the Tobacco Settlement, and directives for transparency and efficiency in state operations.

CURRENT ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Jason Petrie

Juvenile Reform

A comprehensive bill is expected to be introduced shortly. KACP is in the process of reviewing the draft and will provide additional information upon submission of the final version.

Officer Safety Legislation

[KY] SB104 Impediment of First Responders—New Offense and Expanded Definition

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: Creates a new criminal offense for impeding first responders, expands the definition of first responder, and sets specific penalties for repeated offenses.

SUMMARY: This bill establishes the offense of ‘impeding a first responder’ in Kentucky law. It broadens the statutory definition of ‘first responder’ to include probation or parole officers, university police officers, and airport police officers. The bill criminalizes knowingly approaching or remaining within 25 feet of a first responder engaged in official duties after a verbal warning, with intent to impede, threaten, or harass. ‘Harass’ is defined as conduct causing or intended to cause substantial emotional distress without legitimate purpose. Penalties escalate from a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense to a Class D felony for subsequent offenses.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Matt Nunn

Adjustments to Contract Employment Benefits

KACP is actively collaborating with the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) and the Kentucky Sheriffs’ Association (KSA) to advocate revisions to the existing statute concerning health insurance premiums for contract employees. At present, state law explicitly prohibits cities or counties from paying health insurance premiums for contract employees. The proposed legislative change would modify the current statute to grant cities or counties permissive authority to provide health insurance premium payments for their contract employees, should they choose to do so.  Sen. Elkins has agreed to sponsor the legislation, and it should be filed in the coming weeks.

As part of our ongoing efforts, we have been actively collaborating with the Sponsor of HB 213 to propose and implement changes to this piece of legislation.

During our review and discussions, some concerns have emerged regarding the language used in HB 213.

[KY] HB182 Expansion and Clarification of Duty-Related Disability Benefits and Health Insurance in Kentucky Retirement Systems

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill expands and clarifies eligibility and benefits for duty-related disability and death in state-administered retirement systems for nonhazardous employees, modifies definitions and benefit structures, and amends health insurance contribution and eligibility rules.

SUMMARY: The bill amends Kentucky statutes to enhance and clarify duty-related disability and death benefits for nonhazardous employees in state-administered retirement systems. It broadens the definition and eligibility for duty-related injury benefits, creates a new benefit tier for employees disabled in nonhazardous positions that could be certified as hazardous, and makes corresponding changes to health insurance contributions and eligibility. The bill also provides a retroactive application window for certain employees whose last day of paid employment was between January 1, 2022, and the effective date of the Act. It updates terminology for consistency and expands health insurance coverage and premium payment rules for disabled and deceased members and their families.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Ashley Tackett Laferty

[KY] HB37 Retirement Benefits Reform for Hazardous State and County Employees

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This legislation revises and restructures retirement benefits for state and county employees in hazardous positions, focusing on those who joined the hybrid cash balance plan between January 1, 2014, and January 1, 2027. It provides these members the option to revert to the pre-2014 hazardous retirement benefit structure, adjusts eligibility, service credit consolidation, and retirement calculations, and amends numerous sections of Kentucky’s retirement statutes.

SUMMARY: The bill allows state and county employees in hazardous positions who began participation in the hybrid cash balance plan between January 1, 2014, and January 1, 2027, to receive retirement benefits under the prior, more generous hazardous duty plan, unless they opt to remain in the hybrid plan. It presumes all post-2014 hazardous service as pre-2014 service for benefit calculation, allows consolidation of nonhazardous and hazardous service credit, and amends benefit formulas, eligibility, and disability provisions. The bill also updates various definitions and technical aspects of the retirement statutes to reflect these changes.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Matthew Lehman

[KY] HB98 Changes to Retiree Health Provisions in Kentucky Retirement Systems

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends KRS 61.702 and related provisions to modify the structure of retiree health benefits, employee health contribution rates, and medical insurance contributions for Kentucky Retirement Systems and State Police Retirement System members, particularly those who began participation on or after July 1, 2003. It also directs ongoing oversight and evaluation by the Public Pension Oversight Board.

SUMMARY: The legislation revises key elements of retiree health benefits in the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and State Police Retirement System. It alters employee contribution rates for hazardous and nonhazardous positions, restructures monthly insurance contribution formulas for retirees (including new career threshold categories), and updates reimbursement procedures. The new formulas and contribution rates apply prospectively, with most changes effective for service and premiums after July 1, 2027, and January 1, 2027, respectively. The bill also directs ongoing actuarial monitoring and future legislative consideration based on fund improvement.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: James Tipton

*This bill aligns with Senate Bill 10, which was enacted last year for members of the CERS Pension System. It will extend similar provisions to members of the KERS and SPRS Systems.*

LEGISLATION KACP SUPPORTS

[KY] HB189 Pedestrian Restrictions and Safety Standards on State-Maintained Rights-of-Way

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: Establishes new restrictions on stationary pedestrian activity within state-maintained rights-of-way not designated for pedestrian use and authorizes local governments to permit exceptions under specific criteria. Updates and reorganizes existing pedestrian-related statutes with technical and minor substantive changes.

SUMMARY: Creates a new section in KRS Chapter 189 prohibiting individuals from sitting, kneeling, reclining, standing, or remaining stationary in non-pedestrian-designated portions of state-maintained rights-of-way, with exceptions for emergencies, authorized workers, and those in pedestrian areas. Allows local governments to enact ordinances permitting limited exceptions under objective criteria and with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet oversight. Authorizes the Transportation Cabinet to set minimum pedestrian safety standards by regulation. Amends KRS 189.570 to conform language, add gender-neutral references, reorganize certain subsections, and add reference to violations of the new section as a prohibited pedestrian act.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Kevin Jackson

[KY] HB219 Reform of Kentucky Retirement Systems Retiree Health Benefits and Contributions

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This legislation revises the retiree health insurance contribution and reimbursement provisions for members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and the State Police Retirement System, with a focus on employees who began participating on or after July 1, 2003. It differentiates benefits based on years of service and introduces new contribution rates, career thresholds, and reimbursement structures. The act also specifies effective dates for changes and directs oversight for future adjustments based on actuarial improvements.

SUMMARY: The bill amends KRS 61.702 to restructure employee and employer contributions towards retiree health insurance for members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and State Police Retirement System, particularly affecting those with membership dates on or after July 1, 2003. Key changes include new contribution rates based on hazard status and career thresholds, altered eligibility requirements, and revised reimbursement mechanisms for insurance premiums. The bill sets future effective dates for these changes, requires ongoing actuarial monitoring, and clarifies the application of new benefits and contributions.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: John Blanton

[KY] HB220 Amendments to Pension Spiking Rules in Kentucky Public Pensions Authority Systems

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends provisions related to how increases in creditable compensation are treated for retirement benefit calculations in the systems administered by the Kentucky Public Pensions Authority, specifically addressing pension spiking and retroactivity for certain retirees.

SUMMARY: The legislation revises the definition and application of ‘bona fide promotion or career advancement’ to clarify and retroactively include certain increases in compensation as exempt from pension spiking limitations for members retiring on or after July 1, 2022. It mandates the Kentucky Public Pensions Authority to review and adjust the benefits of affected retirees to reflect these changes.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: John Blanton

[KY] HB252 Expansion of In Line of Duty Disability Benefits and Insurance Coverage for Public Employees

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky statutes to expand eligibility and benefits for in line of duty disability and death for members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System, State Police Retirement System, and County Employees Retirement System. It clarifies, expands, and enhances insurance premium payments for members, spouses, and dependents in cases of hazardous disability and in line of duty incidents. The bill also declares an emergency for immediate effect.

SUMMARY: The legislation expands the full payment of insurance premiums to members, spouses, and dependent children of public employees who receive a satisfactory determination of a hazardous disability as a direct result of an act in line of duty, removing previous requirements that treated such members as if they had only 20 years of service. The bill also updates references to federal statutes and clarifies eligibility for insurance reimbursement and coverage. The provisions take effect immediately upon passage.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Emily Callaway

[KY] HB4 Criminalization of Grooming a Minor and Related Professional Discipline Updates

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: Creates the crime of grooming a minor. Amends definitions and disciplinary provisions in various professional licensing statutes to incorporate new definitions, penalties, and terminology, including technical corrections.

SUMMARY: The bill creates a new criminal offense of grooming a minor and provides definitions and penalties for the offense. It amends multiple sections of Kentucky law to add or revise definitions, clarify disciplinary actions for professional licensure boards, and update statutory language related to sexual offenses and professional conduct. The bill includes technical corrections for gender-neutral and modernized language, cross-references, and procedural updates across impacted statutes.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Marianne Proctor

[KY] HB26 Workers’ Compensation Coverage for First Responder Mental Health Injuries

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: Expands Kentucky workers’ compensation law to explicitly cover work-related psychological, psychiatric, or stress-related injuries for first responders, including PTSD, under specified conditions.

SUMMARY: This bill amends Kentucky’s workers’ compensation statutes to allow police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, front-line staff, and Kentucky National Guard members to receive workers’ compensation benefits for psychological, psychiatric, or stress-related injuries that are not the direct result of physical injuries. The bill provides a rebuttable presumption for PTSD related to their service and sets criteria for when such mental health injuries qualify as work-related injuries. It also clarifies exclusions for injuries resulting from certain employment actions taken in good faith.

CURRENT ACTION: to Economic Development & Workforce Investment (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Economic Development & Workforce Investment (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Lindsey Burke

[KY] HB299 Criminalization of Machine Gun Conversion Devices

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: Creates a new criminal offense in Kentucky law for possession of machine gun conversion devices, defines relevant terms, and establishes exceptions and penalties.

SUMMARY: This bill makes it a Class C felony in Kentucky to intentionally possess, obtain, receive, sell, or use any part or combination of parts designed and intended to convert a firearm into a machine gun, with exceptions for certain law enforcement and federally registered items. The bill defines key terms and clarifies exceptions for legal possession. It does not contain appropriations.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Jason Nemes

[KY] HB406 Supplemental Payment and Appropriation for Kentucky Public Pensions Authority Retirees

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill authorizes a one-time supplemental payment for retired members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and State Police Retirement System, and permits the County Employees Retirement System Board to do the same. The bill also appropriates funds to pre-fund these payments and declares an emergency for immediate effect.

SUMMARY: The legislation mandates a one-time supplemental payment in July 2026 for eligible retirees of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and State Police Retirement System, equal to their June 2026 monthly retirement allowance. It appropriates $96 million from the Kentucky Permanent Pension Fund to prefund these payments. The County Employees Retirement System Board is given the option to provide a similar payment, funded by increased employer contributions. The act is effective immediately due to the absence of cost-of-living adjustments since 2011-2012.

CURRENT ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: James Tipton

[KY] HB422 Comprehensive Sentencing and Parole Reform (Logan’s Law)

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill makes significant amendments to Kentucky’s criminal statutes regarding sentencing, parole, parole eligibility, mandatory reentry supervision, definitions of mental illness in criminal law, and persistent felony offender laws. It increases mandatory minimums for violent and capital offenders, alters parole eligibility, modifies definitions and procedures regarding mental illness in criminal proceedings, and repeals the insanity defense in state law.

SUMMARY: The bill, titled ‘Logan’s Law,’ raises minimum parole eligibility from 25 to 35 years for life sentences in capital and certain felony cases, restricts mandatory reentry supervision for more offender categories, increases consecutive sentencing requirements for multiple serious offenses, and repeals the insanity defense. It redefines ‘mental illness’ in criminal proceedings, changes reporting and documentation requirements related to sentencing and supervision, and alters how persistent felony offenders are sentenced. Youthful offender and mental health provisions are also modified.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Daniel Fister

[KY] HB567 Revisions to Kentucky Open Records Act Residency and Application Requirements

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends the definitions and procedures related to residency and identification requirements for Kentucky’s open records law, modifies agency display and form language, and clarifies eligible applicants.

SUMMARY: The bill narrows and clarifies the definition of “resident of the Commonwealth” for open records requests, eliminating authorization for representatives and requiring certain business entities to have a physical presence in Kentucky. It adds requirements for government-issued photo identification, with exceptions, when making records requests. The bill also updates language concerning agency websites and forms, and specifies that certain sections of residency apply to identification statements in requests.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Patrick Flannery

[KY] HB443 Expansion and Clarification of Sex Crimes, Professional Conduct, and Reporting Requirements

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill revises Kentucky statutes related to sex crimes, professional conduct, and disciplinary procedures for various licensed professions, with a significant focus on adding protections for students, minors, and vulnerable populations.

SUMMARY: The bill expands and clarifies definitions and penalties for sex crimes, particularly those involving school employees and students, and amends disciplinary and reporting requirements for professionals including educators, healthcare workers, and social workers. It introduces new definitions, modifies age-related language for consistency, establishes new grounds for professional discipline, and enhances mandatory reporting obligations. The bill reflects a comprehensive effort to close loopholes and strengthen protections against sexual misconduct in educational and healthcare settings.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: James Tipton

[KY] HB516 Retirement Benefits for Probationary Employment – Service Credit Purchase and Definitions

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky statutes regarding the County Employees Retirement System (CERS) to allow employees who served in probationary positions (previously ineligible for retirement participation) to purchase service credit, and expands definitions to include probationary employees in certain disability and death benefits. It also modifies procedures for omitted service and makes technical and substantive updates to related statutes.

SUMMARY: The bill allows employees who completed probationary periods in positions previously ineligible for CERS participation to purchase service credit for that period, subject to specific eligibility and payment requirements. It also revises definitions of ’employee’, ‘member’, and ‘participating’ to include probationary employees for the purposes of duty-related disability and death benefits. The procedures for purchasing omitted and probationary service are clarified, and the bill details employer and employee contribution obligations for such purchases.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Chris Lewis

[KY] SB10 Constitutional Amendment: Limits on Gubernatorial Pardons and Commutations

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: A proposed constitutional amendment restricting the Governor of Kentucky from granting pardons or commuting sentences during a specified period before and after gubernatorial elections, along with various clarifying and technical changes to related constitutional sections.

SUMMARY: This bill proposes an amendment to the Kentucky Constitution to prohibit the Governor from granting pardons or commuting sentences during the period beginning 60 days prior to the gubernatorial election and ending on the fifth Tuesday after the election. The amendment also updates language throughout Sections 77 and 240 for clarity and gender neutrality, and ensures all gubernatorial pardons after dueling are subject to the new restrictions. The bill outlines procedures for submission and publication of the amendment to the voters for ratification.

CURRENT ACTION: received in House

PREVIOUS ACTION: received in House

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Christian McDaniel

[KY] SB28 Phone-Down Kentucky Act: Hands-Free Driving and Electronic Device Restrictions

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill repeals and reenacts laws regarding the use of mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle in Kentucky, expands definitions, establishes comprehensive prohibitions and exceptions, revises penalties, and directs fine allocations to specific state funds. It also mandates signage and creates a courtesy warning period.

SUMMARY: The legislation significantly tightens restrictions on the use of mobile electronic devices by drivers on Kentucky roadways. It broadly defines ‘mobile electronic device’, bans holding or supporting such devices while driving, and prohibits reading, composing, or transmitting text and viewing moving images on these devices. Several exceptions are outlined, including for hands-free use, emergencies, navigation, certain occupational uses, and manufacturer-installed equipment. Law enforcement’s authority for enforcement is limited, and custodial arrests, searches, or device seizures are not permitted solely for violations. The fine for violations is set at $100, with revenues allocated to funds benefiting brain injury, trauma care, and veterans. For a defined period, only courtesy warnings are to be issued. The Act is titled the “Phone-Down Kentucky Act.”

CURRENT ACTION: received in House

PREVIOUS ACTION: received in House

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Jimmy Higdon

[KY] SB138 Jayden’s Law: Child Protection and Criminal Penalties Reform

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This legislation enacts significant reforms to Kentucky law regarding child abuse, child-care center regulation, criminal penalties for offenses against children, and parental rights termination, aiming to strengthen child protection.

SUMMARY: Jayden’s Law introduces a new capital offense for child abuse homicide, expands criminal abuse statutes to cover victims under eighteen (18), increases penalties for abuse-related crimes against children, sets new requirements for video surveillance in child-care centers, and amends procedures and grounds for termination of parental rights in cases involving child injury or death. The law tightens regulations and oversight around child-care, increases penalties for child-related offenses, and strengthens legal mechanisms for protecting children from abuse and neglect.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Brandon Smith

[KY] SR83 Resolution Honoring Officer Nick Wilt on His Retirement

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: A resolution honoring Officer Nick Wilt for his service, bravery, and retirement from the Louisville Metro Police Department.

SUMMARY: This resolution commends Officer Nick Wilt for his heroic actions during the Old National Bank shooting, congratulates him on his retirement, and directs the Senate Clerk to transmit a copy of the resolution for presentation.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Gerald Neal

[KY] SB159 Missing and Unidentified Persons Reporting and Law Enforcement Training Revisions

DECLARATION: Support

DESCRIPTION: This bill aligns Kentucky’s missing persons reporting requirements with federal law (Billy’s Law) by mandating local law enforcement agencies to enter missing and unidentified persons case information into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under specific timelines and circumstances. It also makes technical changes to training regulations and updates requirements for policy and procedures manuals for police departments.

SUMMARY: The bill requires Kentucky law enforcement agencies to adopt and follow written policies mandating the submission of missing and unidentified persons case information into NamUs within certain timeframes after entry into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The manual must specify criteria for rapid reporting, particularly for abductions, AMBER Alerts, and cases involving endangerment or involuntary disappearance. The bill also updates language regarding law enforcement training and domestic violence policy manuals. Technical amendments clarify regulatory authority and update requirements for training curriculum changes. These changes are in addition to, not in lieu of, existing duties related to missing persons.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Matthew Deneen

[KY] HB18 Safe Ownership of Firearms and Ammunition Reporting & Civil Liability

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Establishes new requirements for firearm and ammunition loss/theft reporting, mandates law enforcement database entry, and creates new civil liability standards for failure to report and for providing firearms to minors.

SUMMARY: This bill creates mandatory reporting requirements for owners and sellers in the event of firearm or ammunition loss or theft, requiring reports to law enforcement within 24 hours. Law enforcement agencies must enter reported information into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. The bill further establishes that failure to report lost or stolen firearms results in civil liability for any harm caused by those firearms, including joint and several liability with the perpetrator. It also imposes civil liability on those who knowingly provide firearms to minors for injuries caused by the minor. Additionally, it amends existing law to clarify that these new civil liability provisions take precedence over previous liability limitations for firearm-related injuries.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Lindsey Burke

[KY] HB30 Revisions to Expungement Procedures and Persistent Felony Offender Statutes

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky statutes regarding expungement eligibility and procedures for criminal convictions, including felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic infractions, and clarifies the impact of persistent felony offender sentence enhancements. Significant language is added and removed to expand eligibility for expungement, clarify procedures, and ensure gender-neutral language. It also adds provisions regarding the legal classification of convictions after sentence enhancements.

SUMMARY: The bill broadens eligibility for expungement of criminal records, clarifies the process and requirements for vacating judgments, and modifies the persistent felony offender (PFO) statutes to ensure that sentence enhancements do not change the underlying felony classification. It includes procedural and substantive changes to expungement applications, hearings, fees, and the treatment of charges dismissed or amended in the original criminal action. Gender-neutral language is systematically adopted.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Lindsey Burke

[KY] HB47 Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law and Training Requirements for Law Enforcement

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill mandates participation of Kentucky law enforcement in the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 287(g) Task Force Model Program and adjusts required training protocols for officers in such programs.

SUMMARY: The legislation requires all Kentucky State Police department posts to enter into agreements with ICE to participate in the 287(g) Task Force Model Program, granting certain state and local officers federal immigration enforcement authority following specific training. Officers who complete the mandatory ICE-provided training may count it towards their annual state-required in-service training. The bill also reorganizes and updates statutory references, adds new subsections, and clarifies the impact of extenuating circumstances and military service on training requirements.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: T.J. Roberts

[KY] HB58 Regulation of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) and Privacy Protection

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill establishes strict regulations for the use, retention, and sharing of data from Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) in Kentucky, creating new privacy protections and penalties for misuse.

SUMMARY: The legislation creates a new section in KRS Chapter 189 to regulate the use of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) by individuals, entities, and government bodies. It restricts deployment to specific public safety, parking, and toll collection purposes, mandates strict data retention and sharing rules, and requires law enforcement to adopt public policies and conduct regular audits. The bill also amends KRS 189.990 to impose new penalties for violations of these ALPR provisions.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: John Hodgson

[KY] HB77 Red Flag Repeal Act of 2026 – Ex Parte Orders and Firearm Restrictions

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky statutes regarding ex parte protective orders, specifically removing the authority to prohibit firearm possession, transfer, or require surrender of firearms and related items under such orders.

SUMMARY: The bill creates a new section and amends existing statutes to prohibit courts in Kentucky from using ex parte protective orders (including emergency protective orders and temporary interpersonal protective orders) to restrict a person’s rights to possess, purchase, sell, transfer, or be compelled to surrender firearms, ammunition, firearm accessories, holsters, or firearm storage devices. These changes apply to orders issued under KRS 237.060 to 237.090, KRS 403.730, and KRS 456.040. The bill is cited as the Red Flag Repeal Act of 2026.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: T.J. Roberts

[KY] HB106 Establishment of EMS Professionals Foundation Program Fund and Related Changes

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill creates the EMS Professionals Foundation Program fund, establishes eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms for EMS professionals and ambulance services, amends statutes to include the new fund in state financial practices, and clarifies benefits for EMS personnel.

SUMMARY: The bill establishes a dedicated fund to provide financial supplements and mental health reimbursement for EMS professionals in Kentucky. It defines eligibility, outlines fund administration, and sets supplement amounts. The fund is sourced from state appropriations and insurance premium surcharges, with related amendments to existing laws on fund management and death benefits. The bill also ensures the new fund is integrated into state financial processes and clarifies overtime calculations for EMS professionals.

CURRENT ACTION: to Local Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Local Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Mark Hart

[KY] HB116 Comprehensive Firearm Regulation and Safety Act

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill introduces extensive new regulations on firearms, ammunition, and related devices in Kentucky, including definitions, licensing and registration requirements, background checks, reporting requirements, safe storage mandates, criminal penalties, and changes to protective orders and criminal sentencing.

SUMMARY: The legislation establishes broad new restrictions and regulatory schemes for firearms and ammunition in Kentucky. It defines and regulates ‘assault weapons’ and ‘large capacity ammunition feeding devices,’ mandates background checks for most firearm transfers, requires safe storage of firearms, introduces new licensing and registration requirements for handguns, assault weapons, and large capacity magazines, and sets up administrative rules and fees for compliance. It also creates new criminal offenses and amends existing statutes to include firearm surrender as part of protective and criminal orders. The bill removes preemption of local firearms control, alters school property weapon rules, and adjusts criminal facilitation, assault, and sentencing statutes to address firearms specifically. Emergency provisions accelerate the effective date for most sections.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: George Brown

[KY] HB121 Destruction of Confiscated Firearms and Related Forfeiture Procedures

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation fundamentally changes how confiscated firearms are handled by mandating their destruction by the Department of Kentucky State Police, eliminating the prior practice of auctioning them. It also makes related amendments to statutory procedures for the disposition of forfeited property, grant programs, and state/local agency responsibilities.

SUMMARY: The bill amends several Kentucky statutes to require that all confiscated firearms not retained for official use be destroyed rather than sold at public auction. It removes provisions for the auction, sale, and distribution of proceeds from firearms and eliminates grant programs funded by such sales. The bill also updates related forfeiture and Department for Local Government statutes to reflect this new policy, and clarifies procedures for destruction, retention, and disposition of other forfeited property.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: George Brown

[KY] HB125 Firearm Prohibition and Transfer Requirements for Domestic Abusers and Protective Order Respondents

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill establishes new prohibitions and procedures regarding firearm possession, transfer, and notification for individuals convicted of domestic abuse offenses or subject to domestic violence or dating violence protective orders in Kentucky. It amends several statutes and creates new sections to define offenses, set transfer protocols, and require court notifications.

SUMMARY: The bill creates new criminal offenses for firearm possession by individuals convicted of domestic abuse offenses or subject to domestic violence/dating violence protective orders, classifies violations as felonies or misdemeanors, and details mandatory firearm transfer procedures. Courts must inform affected individuals of their obligations, and law enforcement must manage and document firearm transfers. The bill also amends definitions, clarifies court duties, and establishes penalties for noncompliance.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: George Brown

[KY] HB126 Kentucky Firearm Transfer Background Check Expansion

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill creates new requirements for background checks on most sales, exchanges, or transfers of firearms in Kentucky, with certain exceptions. It establishes processes involving licensed dealers, recordkeeping, and penalties for violations.

SUMMARY: The legislation mandates that all firearm sales, exchanges, or transfers in Kentucky must include a national instant background check conducted by a licensed dealer, unless the transfer is between immediate family members or by a federally licensed dealer under federal law. Dealers must keep records of these transactions, and a fee of up to $10 may be charged for conducting the background check. Records of these checks are not considered public records under the Kentucky Open Records Act. Violations of these provisions constitute a Class A misdemeanor.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: George Brown

[KY] HB211 Peace Officer Duty to Intervene, Protections, and Reporting Standards

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Establishes new statutory requirements for peace officers to intervene against unlawful use of force, mandates reporting and medical aid duties, protects officers from retaliation, and sets new standards for training and oversight by law enforcement councils.

SUMMARY: This bill creates new legal obligations for peace officers in Kentucky to intervene when witnessing another officer’s unlawful use of force, requires them to provide medical aid and report such incidents, and grants legal protections against retaliation. It amends existing statutes to require law enforcement councils to set and annually review minimum standards regarding use of force, intervention duties, and reporting police misconduct. The bill also provides a civil cause of action for officers facing retaliatory personnel action and establishes a three-year statute of limitations for such actions.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Nima Kulkarni

[KY] HB213 Reemployment and Benefits of Retired Police Officers

DECLARATION: Undecided

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends statutes relating to the reemployment of retired police officers by county police departments, sheriff’s offices, and city governments in Kentucky. It also modifies provisions regarding retirement and health insurance benefits for retirees who return to work, and eligibility and contributions to health plans for retirees under certain reemployment conditions.

SUMMARY: The bill reduces the minimum required years of service for retired police officers to be reemployed from 20 to 15 years. It removes prohibitions against reemployed retirees receiving health insurance coverage through the employing agencies and clarifies that retirees will continue to receive their retirement and health insurance benefits upon reemployment. The bill also amends how certain health insurance reimbursements and contributions are administered for retirees and the agencies that rehire them.

CURRENT ACTION: 2nd reading, to Rules

PREVIOUS ACTION: 2nd reading, to Rules

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Emily Callaway

[KY] HB248 Establishment and Regulation of Hospital Police Departments

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill authorizes certain hospitals in Kentucky to establish their own police departments, appoint police officers, and set related regulations, powers, and procedures for operation, oversight, and accountability.

SUMMARY: The bill creates comprehensive provisions for hospitals (not owned or operated by public entities) to establish police departments with full peace officer powers. It details the appointment, powers, training, and jurisdiction of hospital police officers, establishes policies for emergency vehicles, radio communications, and traffic control on hospital property, and sets forth investigative and procedural protections for complaints against hospital police officers. It also prohibits impersonation of hospital police and outlines due process rights for officers subject to disciplinary procedures.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: D. Wade Williams

[KY] HB282 Vehicle Lights Regulation Updates (Troy’s Law)

DECLARATION: Oppose

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky law regarding the use and requirements for vehicle lights on emergency and public safety vehicles, including new permissions for wrecker vehicles, and clarifies procedures for coroners and deputy coroners regarding emergency lighting. It is cited as Troy’s Law.

SUMMARY: The legislation expands and clarifies the types and uses of flashing, rotating, and oscillating lights permitted on specific vehicles, including emergency vehicles, public safety vehicles, and wreckers. Notably, it authorizes the use of blue lights on wreckers under certain conditions and provides for the procedures by which coroners and deputy coroners may use emergency lights. The bill also updates language to include specific forms of local government and sets conditions for the use of emergency lighting by coroners and deputy coroners.

CURRENT ACTION: to Transportation (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Transportation (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Richard White

[KY] HB297 Expansion of Police Officer Definition to Include Kentucky State Fair Board Special Police Officers

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends KRS 15.420, expanding the definition of ‘police officer’ for purposes of Kentucky statutes governing peace officers. The changes add Kentucky State Fair Board special police officers to the list of officers eligible for statutory benefits and recognition, subject to certain provisions.

SUMMARY: The bill revises the statutory definition of ‘police officer’ in KRS 15.420 to explicitly include Kentucky State Fair Board special police officers, making them eligible for benefits and recognition under relevant Kentucky law. The language clarifies eligibility for annual supplements and aligns the definition with other specialized law enforcement positions.

CURRENT ACTION: reassigned to Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: reassigned to Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Chris Lewis

[KY] HB304 Kentucky State/Executive Branch Biennial Budget (FY 2026-2028)

DECLARATION: Undecided

DESCRIPTION: Comprehensive appropriations and budget bill for the operation, maintenance, support, and functioning of the Kentucky state government, specifying funding levels, conditions, and priorities for the fiscal years 2026-2027 and 2027-2028. Includes detailed appropriations for all state agencies, major programs, and capital projects, along with budget procedures, surplus plans, and contingency provisions.

SUMMARY: This bill enacts the biennial state/executive branch budget for Kentucky for FY 2026-2027 and FY 2027-2028. It appropriates funds from the General Fund, Road Fund, Restricted Funds, Federal Funds, Bond Funds, and others to a comprehensive set of state agencies and programs. The bill specifies funding levels, conditions on use of funds, salary increments for state employees, and details capital projects and debt service. It also establishes contingency, surplus, and budget reduction plans and outlines the distribution of Phase I Tobacco Settlement Funds. There are extensive provisions for program-specific allocations, carry-forward authorities, fund transfers, and restrictions on the use and reallocation of appropriations.

CURRENT ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Appropriations & Revenue (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Pamela Stevenson

[KY] HB312 Creation of Provisional Concealed Carry Licenses for 18-20 Year Olds

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Creates a provisional license system for concealed carry of firearms and deadly weapons for individuals aged 18 to 20, outlining eligibility, application, and transition procedures to the standard license at age 21.

SUMMARY: This bill establishes a new provisional license for persons aged 18-20 to carry concealed firearms or deadly weapons. The Department of Kentucky State Police will issue these licenses, which are valid statewide until the holder turns 21. The bill lays out application, renewal, and transition procedures to a standard concealed carry license at age 21, ensures provisional licenses are distinguishable from standard ones, and authorizes administrative regulations for implementation.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Savannah Maddox

[KY] HB324 Enhancements to Peace Officer Training Requirements in Kentucky

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky Revised Statutes 15.334 to add and clarify mandatory training requirements for law enforcement officers, with particular emphasis on crisis intervention, de-escalation, and sexual assault investigation training.

SUMMARY: The bill revises mandatory basic and in-service training subjects for Kentucky peace officers, including new requirements for crisis intervention and de-escalation training, clarifies existing sexual assault investigation training requirements, and mandates the frequency and technological flexibility of certain trainings. It also removes outdated language regarding the timeline for sexual assault training implementation.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Kimberly Holloway

[KY] HB327 Major Bail Reform and Pretrial Release Overhaul in Kentucky

DECLARATION: Oppose

DESCRIPTION: This legislation comprehensively reforms Kentucky’s bail and pretrial release system, focusing on eliminating money bail for most defendants, implementing risk-based assessments, expanding nonfinancial release conditions, limiting the use of monetary bail, and restructuring pretrial procedures and definitions.

SUMMARY: The bill abolishes money bail for the vast majority of defendants, replacing the current system with a validated, risk-based pretrial assessment that determines release conditions. It sets out detailed definitions for violent, sexual, and ‘enhanced scrutiny’ offenses, and establishes criteria and procedures for detention hearings, risk levels, and release eligibility. The use of money bail is strictly limited to high-risk defendants who are not a danger to the public and only for the purpose of ensuring court appearance. The bill also amends numerous statutes to align with these reforms, including reporting requirements, conditions of release, bail amounts, and the role of charitable bail organizations. It repeals KRS 431.021 regarding guaranteed arrest bond certificates.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: George Brown

[KY] HB361 Lawful Immigration System Act of 2026 (Sanctuary Policy Prohibitions and Enforcement)

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill establishes comprehensive prohibitions on sanctuary policies in Kentucky, mandates cooperation with federal immigration authorities, and creates enforcement mechanisms including funding penalties for non-compliance. It also outlines procedures for handling immigration detainers and provides protections for crime victims and witnesses.

SUMMARY: The Act prohibits state entities, local governments, and law enforcement agencies from adopting or enforcing sanctuary policies that impede cooperation with federal immigration agencies. It defines key terms, sets requirements for honoring immigration detainers, and mandates resource allocation for supporting federal immigration law enforcement. The Act establishes penalties for non-compliance, including suspension of state road aid funds and allows civil actions against local governments if unlawful releases lead to violent offenses. It also clarifies protections for victims and witnesses of crimes regarding immigration status information sharing.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Jared Bauman

[KY] HB375 Prohibition and Penalties for Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)

DECLARATION: Oppose

DESCRIPTION: This bill establishes a statewide prohibition on the use, deployment, or maintenance of automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems and creates criminal and civil penalties for violations.

SUMMARY: The legislation defines automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and prohibits their use, deployment, or maintenance by any person, entity, or government agency in Kentucky. Violations of this prohibition are classified as a Class D felony with a $10,000 fine. The bill also creates civil liability for violators, allowing individuals whose data is captured by ALPRs to bring civil actions for damages, including attorney’s fees and costs. Defendants prevailing in such actions may also recover attorney’s fees.

CURRENT ACTION: to Transportation (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Transportation (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: T.J. Roberts

[KY] HB414 Reforms to DNA Sample Collection and Booking Procedures in Kentucky Jails

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation expands and clarifies requirements for DNA sample collection from individuals arrested, indicted, or charged with felony offenses in Kentucky, updates definitions, introduces rapid DNA technology, establishes protocols for collection and expungement, and creates a fee for collection by law enforcement.

SUMMARY: The bill significantly revises Kentucky laws regarding collection, processing, and expungement of DNA samples from individuals involved in felony cases. It broadens both the categories of individuals subject to DNA collection (including all adults arrested or indicted for a felony) and those authorized to collect DNA samples (now including local government agents). The bill introduces rapid DNA technology, sets guidelines for its use, and tightly regulates the handling and destruction of DNA samples and records, including new expungement processes. Law enforcement officers are now eligible for a fee for each qualifying DNA sample collected and processed. The bill also updates the centralized DNA database’s scope and management, and clarifies confidentiality and proper use of DNA records. Expungement procedures are expanded for individuals whose cases end in acquittal, dismissal, or diversion.

CURRENT ACTION: to Local Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Local Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Patrick Flannery

[KY] HB425 Motor Vehicle Street Racing Penalties and Forfeiture Reform

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky statutes to significantly increase penalties for illegal street racing, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and forfeiture. It also revises procedures for forfeiture and disposition of property, especially motor vehicles used in street racing offenses, and clarifies the handling of property and funds obtained through criminal acts.

SUMMARY: The bill increases penalties for violations of KRS 189.505 (unpermitted street racing), establishing a $1,000 fine and mandatory vehicle impoundment for a first offense, and a $2,000 fine with vehicle forfeiture for subsequent offenses. It specifies that forfeited vehicles from second or subsequent offenses are to be disposed of by destruction or auction, with proceeds directed to the Crime Victims Compensation Board. The bill also expands and clarifies procedures for the forfeiture, retention, and sale of property obtained through criminal acts, including firearms and vehicles, and enhances requirements for identifying and notifying lawful owners before property forfeiture. Additionally, it strengthens employment consequences for public safety personnel convicted of certain offenses and refines language regarding the transport of natural resources.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Beverly Chester-Burton

[KY] HB445 Cost-of-Living Increase for Kentucky Retired State Employees

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Provides a two percent cost-of-living increase to monthly retirement allowances for retired Kentucky state employees in both nonhazardous and hazardous positions, as well as retired state police. Appropriates funds from the Budget Reserve Trust Fund to prefund these increases, effective July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency for immediate effect.

SUMMARY: This legislation appropriates a total of $256.1 million from the Budget Reserve Trust Fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 to provide a 2% cost-of-living increase in monthly retirement benefits for retired members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System (both nonhazardous and hazardous positions) and the State Police Retirement System. The increase takes effect July 1, 2026. The bill cites the lack of such increases since FY 2011-2012 and declares an emergency for immediate implementation.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Erika Hancock

[KY] HB479 Comprehensive Reform of Kentucky Hate Crimes Law and Law Enforcement Training

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation repeals and reenacts Kentucky’s hate crimes statute, significantly expanding its scope, creating new civil remedies, and mandating extensive law enforcement training and policies related to hate crimes. It revises reporting requirements and eligibility for law enforcement funding, and repeals a prior section relating to hate crime victim status for compensation purposes.

SUMMARY: The bill overhauls Kentucky’s hate crimes laws by expanding protected classes to include sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, age, and physical or mental disability. It establishes specific felony penalties for hate crimes, with enhanced penalties under certain aggravating circumstances. The legislation creates a civil cause of action for hate crime victims, mandates new law enforcement training and agency policies on hate crime identification, investigation, and reporting, and amends requirements for law enforcement funding eligibility. It also updates mandatory reporting and data collection procedures for hate crimes and repeals a prior provision regarding victim compensation eligibility.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Daniel Grossberg

[KY] HB481 Revisions to Sex Offender Residency and Proximity Restrictions

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 17.545, increasing residency and proximity restrictions for sex offender registrants, expanding the list of protected locations, and clarifying enforcement provisions.

SUMMARY: The legislation revises residency and proximity restrictions for individuals required to register as sex offenders. Key changes include increasing the prohibited residency distance from certain facilities for new registrants, expanding the list of protected locations where registrants cannot loiter or work, and clarifying measurement protocols and compliance obligations. These changes are not retroactive except as specified, and carve-outs remain for certain familial situations and youthful offenders.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Felicia Rabourn

[KY] HB483 Firearm Purchase Options for State Employees and Retirees

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Modifies procedures and pricing for Kentucky state employees and retirees to purchase firearms issued to them during employment, including adjusted valuation and use of sale proceeds.

SUMMARY: This legislation amends existing Kentucky law to clarify and expand the process by which state employees and retirees can purchase firearms issued to them by their agency. It establishes a differentiated purchase price calculation for retirees based on the firearm’s age and mandates sale proceeds be used for replacement firearms. The law supersedes other state property disposition laws for this specific purpose.

CURRENT ACTION: to State Government (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to State Government (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Steve Bratcher

[KY] HB497 Reform of Postsecondary Tuition Waivers and Financial Aid Coordination

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill significantly revises Kentucky’s statutes regarding tuition waivers at state-supported postsecondary institutions for certain categories of students, focusing on integrating need-based financial aid, redefining waiver limits, removing certain existing waivers, and making technical changes.

SUMMARY: The legislation amends multiple sections of Kentucky law to require that students eligible for tuition waivers (such as survivors or dependents of disabled or deceased veterans, National Guard members, law enforcement officers, and firefighters) must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It limits the tuition waiver amount to the cost of tuition and mandatory fees, less any federal or state grants received, which must be applied first. The bill also repeals the tuition waiver for persons aged 65 or older and removes the tuition waiver previously available to employees of secondary area technology centers. Several consequential technical and conforming changes are made throughout relevant statutes.

CURRENT ACTION: to Postsecondary Education (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Postsecondary Education (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: James Tipton

[KY] HB511 Expansion of Hate Crimes Statutes and Law Enforcement Training

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation amends Kentucky statutes to expand the categories covered by hate crime laws, modifies law enforcement training requirements regarding hate crimes, and updates crime reporting procedures.

SUMMARY: The bill expands the definition of hate crimes to include offenses motivated by ‘political creed.’ It also revises law enforcement training curricula to include instruction on identifying and responding to hate crimes related to political creed, and updates reporting requirements to capture hate crimes based on political creed. The legislation streamlines and clarifies statutory language throughout the affected sections.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: T.J. Roberts

[KY] HB517 Revisions to Concealed Deadly Weapons Laws and School Property Provisions

DECLARATION: Opposed

DESCRIPTION: This bill makes significant amendments to Kentucky’s laws related to carrying concealed deadly weapons, including where such weapons may be carried, application and license requirements, and the treatment of concealed carry on school property. It repeals KRS 237.115 and makes numerous clarifying and substantive changes throughout relevant statutes.

SUMMARY: The bill revises Kentucky’s statutes concerning concealed deadly weapons, removing or amending restrictions on where license holders may carry, updating application and renewal procedures, and expanding exceptions for carrying on school property. It repeals KRS 237.115, previously allowing local governments to prohibit concealed carry in government buildings. The bill also makes several technical edits for clarity and consistency, and redefines ‘day-care’ as ‘child-care’ in relevant statutes.

CURRENT ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Judiciary (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Felicia Rabourn

[KY] HB541 Revisions to Kentucky Peace Officer Certification and Hiring Requirements

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation revises and expands definitions, requirements, and procedures related to the certification, employment, and training of peace officers and court security officers in Kentucky. It clarifies agency responsibilities, minimum candidate qualifications, information sharing requirements, and penalties for violations.

SUMMARY: The bill amends various sections of Kentucky law governing peace officers and court security officers. Key changes include updated definitions, new and clarified minimum qualifications for officer candidates, more detailed agency obligations for background checks and information sharing during the hiring process, strengthened training and certification requirements, and expanded liability protections for agencies providing candidate information. The bill also establishes explicit penalties for violations of these provisions.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: John Blanton

[KY] HB554 Changes to Retiree Health Contributions and Benefits in the Kentucky Retirement Systems

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill amends KRS 61.702 to revise employee contribution rates and retiree health insurance benefits for Kentucky Employees Retirement System (KERS) and State Police Retirement System (SPRS) members, with particular focus on those entering the system on or after July 1, 2003. It establishes new contribution rates, introduces differentiated insurance contributions for hazardous duty members based on a ‘career threshold,’ and provides updated rules for medical insurance reimbursement. Effective dates for the changes are specified.

SUMMARY: The bill modifies employee contributions and retiree health insurance benefits in the Kentucky Employees Retirement System and State Police Retirement System. It sets new contribution rates for nonhazardous and hazardous members based on hire date and service, including a higher contribution rate for hazardous duty positions after a certain career threshold. The bill also revises the calculation and eligibility for retiree health insurance contributions and establishes new reimbursement procedures for retirees purchasing their own insurance. The Public Pension Oversight Board is tasked with monitoring actuarial data and proposing further adjustments if retiree health funds improve. Key provisions have future effective dates and apply prospectively based on service accrued after July 1, 2003.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (H)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Chris Fugate

[KY] SB24 Establishes Automated Red Light Enforcement with Civil Penalties

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: Creates a legal framework for the use of traffic control signal monitoring systems (red light cameras) in Kentucky, authorizing automated enforcement of red light violations, establishing civil penalties, and specifying administrative and judicial processes for citations. Outlines definitions, citation procedures, allocation of penalty revenues, and defenses. Updates related statutes to incorporate new civil enforcement mechanisms.

SUMMARY: This bill authorizes and regulates the use of automated traffic control signal monitoring systems (red light cameras) to enforce red light running violations in Kentucky. It establishes a $50 civil penalty for violations detected by these systems, with revenue split between local governments and the Administrative Office of the Courts. The bill prescribes procedures for citations, payment, contestation, and defenses, as well as consequences for nonpayment, such as vehicle registration suspension. The measure amends existing statutes to permit this enforcement and clarify penalties, specifying that such violations carry no driver license points.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Reginald Thomas

[KY] SB75 Lowering Age and Technical Revisions for Concealed Carry Licenses

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill makes major changes to Kentucky’s concealed deadly weapon statutes, most notably lowering the minimum age to obtain a concealed carry license from 21 to 18. It also makes numerous technical, clarifying, and terminology updates throughout the statutes governing concealed carry, licensing, and training.

SUMMARY: The bill amends KRS 237.109 and KRS 237.110, lowering the age for concealed carry (with or without a license) from 21 to 18 for otherwise eligible individuals. It updates federal law references, clarifies eligibility and application requirements, and makes technical and language cleanups to improve statutory clarity and consistency. The bill also updates various provisions related to training, reporting, and the administration of the concealed carry program.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Aaron Reed

[KY] SB86 Mandate for State and Local Law Enforcement to Collaborate with Federal Immigration Enforcement Programs

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This bill requires all local law enforcement agencies and the Kentucky State Police to enter into written agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to participate in specified federal immigration enforcement programs: Jail Enforcement Model, Task Force Model, and Warrant Service Officer Model, as established under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

SUMMARY: The legislation defines three specific ICE collaboration models (Jail Enforcement, Task Force, and Warrant Service Officer), and mandates that all local law enforcement and the Kentucky State Police formally enter into agreements with ICE to participate in these programs. This would require state and local agencies to take an active role in identifying, detaining, or assisting in the removal of individuals subject to federal immigration enforcement, in line with ICE protocols.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Phillip Wheeler

[KY] SB113 Reform of Procedures for Confiscated Firearms and Criminal Homicide Firearm Destruction

DECLARATION: Watch

DESCRIPTION: This legislation substantially amends procedures for the disposition of confiscated firearms in Kentucky, with a focus on tightening requirements regarding firearms used in criminal homicides, expanding authority for firearm destruction, and specifying new administrative protocols for law enforcement agencies.

SUMMARY: The bill revises statutes governing the handling, sale, and destruction of confiscated firearms by the Kentucky State Police and other law enforcement agencies. It mandates the destruction of firearms used in criminal homicides, expands the discretion of the commissioner of the Kentucky State Police to destroy certain compromised firearms, and requires law enforcement agencies to establish policies on the destruction of such firearms. It also clarifies the process and restrictions regarding the transfer, auction, or destruction of confiscated firearms and ammunition. The bill includes new administrative requirements for recordkeeping and policy development related to these actions.

CURRENT ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PREVIOUS ACTION: to Committee on Committees (S)

PRIMARY SPONSOR: Danny Carroll

LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR

Jan. 6: Opening day of 2026 KY General Assembly legislative session.

Jan. 19: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; legislature not in session

Feb. 16: Presidents Day holiday; legislature not in session

March 2: Last day for introduction of new Senate bills

March 4: Last day for introduction of new House bills

April 2 – April 13: Veto recess

April 14-15: Final legislative days

As always, questions, suggestions, comments or concerns can be directed to Executive Director Shawn Butler, who can be reached at 859-743-2920 or sbutler@kacp.org