FRANKFORT– Lawmakers returned for the final two days of the 2024 legislative session before adjourning sine die on Monday, April 15, bringing business to a close. It was the first time the House and Senate have gaveled into session since the chambers adjourned in March for a two-week veto recess. The recess provides time for the Governor to sign bills, allow them to become law without his signature, or issue vetoes.Â
The proceedings capped off a relatively conventional year for the legislature—one that started with a gradual pace but picked up steam in the second half amid a flood of proposed legislation. More than 1,200 bills were filed this year—the highest number in more than two decades—and around 215 were passed before the session drew to a close. Of the more than 160 measures that cleared the chambers last month, the Governor vetoed 20 and issued line-item vetoes to several more related to budgeting in state government. However, when lawmakers returned on Friday, April 12, there was little trouble overriding those actions as proceedings unfolded throughout the day.
House Bill 5, known as the Safer Kentucky Act, was one of only a few that drew much debate during votes on the chamber floors. The legislation will enhance penalties for repeat, violent offenders. It will also allow prosecutors to file a manslaughter charge against anyone who sells or distributes fentanyl that causes a fatal overdose. Other provisions seek to curb unlawful street camping, set limits on charitable bond organizations, and crack down on carjacking.
Lawmakers overrode the veto on HB 5 despite continued objections that it will harm homeless populations and increase incarceration costs.
The House and Senate also defeated the Governor’s line-item vetoes on the budget bills. Those include a $128 billion executive branch budget and other measures related to the legislative branch, the state transportation cabinet, and one-time expenditures.
Another major override focused on House Bill 7, a much-debated bill that creates a regulatory framework for operating autonomous vehicles in Kentucky.
Here’s a look at some of the other bills that were subject to a veto override before lawmakers adjourned on thesecond-to-last day of the session:
Capitol Statues: House Bill 513 requires the Historic Properties Advisory Commission to receive approval from the Kentucky General Assembly before adding or removing any statues, monuments, or art on permanent display in the Capitol Rotunda.
Gas Stations: House Bill 581 prevents local governments from passing or enforcing rules that treat retail gas stations differently from electric vehicle charging stations.
Horse Racing Commission: Senate Bill 299 revamps the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission to create a fully independent agency called the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation. In addition, the bill will dissolve the state Department of Charitable Gaming next year and place oversight of charitable gaming under the new corporation.
Legislative Vacancies: Under House Bill 622, vacant seats in the U.S. Senate will be filled through a special election rather than an appointment by the governor. The winner of the election will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.
Louisville Metro Government: House Bill 388 includes multiple provisions to revamp certain aspects of the Louisville Metro Government. This includes one section that changes elections for the metro council and the mayor from partisan to nonpartisan.
Nuclear Energy: Senate Bill 198 establishes the Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority to support and facilitate the development of a nuclear energy ecosystem across the state.
Recording Food Operations: Senate Bill 16 forbids people from capturing or distributing unauthorized video, audio, or photos from a commercial food manufacturing facility or an animal feeding operation. Violators could face a Class B misdemeanor on the first offense and a Class A misdemeanor for a subsequent offense.
School District Task Force: House Concurrent Resolution 81 will establish the Efficient and Effective School District Governance Task Force to study the organizational structures of Jefferson County Public Schools and develop possible recommendations to ensure effectiveness.
Throughout the session, the House and Senate found plenty of issues to debate—education, housing, elections,guns, and even the official state rock. Big data and artificial intelligence gained significant attention this year, as did questions over the future of nuclear energy in Kentucky. However, few bills garnered more attention than House Bill 6, the $128 billion budget plan for the state executive branch. It was among several major budget bills that will also fund community projects, transportation, and the judicial and legislative branches of government over the next two years.
I am pleased to provide an update on the significant achievements and funding allocations from the 2024 Regular Session, which will greatly benefit our community over the next two years. Thanks to collaborative efforts and steadfast commitment in the legislature, we have successfully secured vital appropriations that will enhance our district’s infrastructure, public safety, and community services.
Investments in Community Development and Public Safety
In Boyd County, we have championed a substantial investment of $12.5 million in each fiscal year to develop a state-of-the-art conference center complex in the City of Ashland. This project, funded through the Department for Local Government, is expected to boost local commerce, create jobs, and serve as a hub for community and business events.
Turning to Greenup County, we are addressing critical needs in public health and safety by allocating $500,000 for the fiscal year 2024-2025 to support the purchase of new ambulances and the renovation of the Emergency Management Services headquarters and training facility. This funding will enhance our response capabilities and ensure that our first responders are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
Furthermore, we have laid the groundwork for continued support in Greenup County with General Fund provisions that include operating costs totaling $311,000 and significant capital investments deferred to the 2026-2028 biennium for the Greenup County Courthouse. These funds will support nonrecurring equipment and essential updates to the judicial facilities.
Enhanced Transportation Infrastructure
Recognizing the critical role of transportation in economic development and quality of life, we have secured substantial funding to improve roads and bridges across Senate District 18. Over the next two years, we will see an infusion of $60,243,768 in transportation funds distributed as follows:
- Boyd County: $14,326,129
- Carter County: $18,799,639
- Greenup County: $18,054,000
- Lewis County: $9,064,000
These investments will facilitate smoother travel and safer roads and support the continued growth and development of our region.
As we look forward to the implementation of new laws and the benefits of new projects and infrastructure in our communities, I remain committed to ensuring that our district receives the attention and resources it needs to thrive. These budgetary measures reflect our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and laying down a solid foundation for future generations.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement throughout the 2024 session. Together, we are making significant strides toward a brighter future for Senate District 18.
If I can ever assist, please do not hesitate to contact me. To share feedback on an issue, feel free to email me anytime at Robin.Webb@LRC.KY.GOV or call the General Assembly Message Line at 1-800-372-7181. Kentuckians with hearing loss can use Kentucky Relay by dialing 711.
