FRANKFORT— As February unfolds, the Capitol in Frankfort is alive with purpose as lawmakers return to tackle the second half of this year’s crucial 30-day legislative session. A full agenda awaits us, and already the Senate has acted swiftly on several high-priority items, most notably the passage of House Bill 1 (HB 1). This legislation reduces Kentucky’s individual income tax rate from 4% to 3.5%, with the new rate set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The measure represents a continued effort to phase out the income tax entirely—a long-term objective of recent fiscal policy.
I supported HB 1 because I believe that responsibly structured tax reductions can spur economic growth by enabling families to retain more of their earnings—money they can save, invest, and circulate through local businesses, thereby strengthening our community economies. Yet, I also recognize that tax revenue is indispensable for funding education, healthcare, public safety, and infrastructure. Any future proposals that risk undermining these essential services or disproportionately favor the wealthy at the expense of working families will face my firm opposition. Sound tax policy requires a balance between fostering economic growth and preserving fiscal responsibility.
Beyond tax reform, the Senate moved forward with several other key bills this week:
Senate Bill (SB) 17 establishes licensing and safety standards for freestanding birthing centers. The bill requires these centers to implement hospital transfer agreements and informed consent protocols while exempting them from certificate-of-need regulations. It passed 34-0, with three senators abstaining.
SB 23 enhances regulatory transparency by distinguishing between full and informational reviews. The bill calls for increased cooperation from state agencies to improve legislative oversight, passing the Senate unanimously.
SB 37 assigns responsibility for the burial or cremation of unclaimed bodies to the fiscal court or local government and permits coroners to use the deceased’s assets to cover burial expenses. This measure received overwhelming support with a 37-0 vote and one abstention.
SB 43 creates a medical review board to assess whether individuals with physical or mental disabilities are fit to operate motor vehicles. The board will recommend license restrictions if necessary and provide an appeals process. It passed with unanimous approval.
SB 126 proposes a constitutional amendment to limit the Governor’s ability to issue pardons or commute sentences in the window spanning from 60 days before to five weeks after a gubernatorial election. This amendment will be presented to voters at the next regular election. It passed 37-0, with one abstention.
In addition to legislative advancements, this week provided opportunities to engage with stakeholders and advocates on pressing matters. I was particularly honored to meet with members of the National Association of Sportsmen Caucuses and the Congressional Sportsmen Foundation to discuss policies aimed at preserving and promoting Kentucky’s outdoor heritage.
A highlight of the session was welcoming members of the United Steelworkers, whose visits are always a source of invaluable insight on labor and industry concerns. I also met with Lewis County Superintendent Mike Melton to discuss regional education initiatives and had the pleasure of meeting his nephew, Tanner, who served as a Senate page.
Another rewarding moment was reuniting with Lori Cooksey, regent at Eastern Kentucky University, who visited to advocate on behalf of higher education in our region. Hearing directly from educators, labor leaders, and community advocates underscores the importance of making thoughtful, informed decisions that reflect the needs of those we serve.
One of the most inspiring events of the week was the 8th Annual Serving Up Solutions Dinner—a gathering dedicated to supporting food banks and raising funds to combat hunger across Kentucky. Alongside leaders from the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS), legislators donned aprons to serve meals and share fellowship. It was heartening to connect with KCTCS leaders Larry Ferguson, Jennifer Lindon, and Laura McCullough, as well as the Cartmell family.
University of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart delivered an uplifting keynote address, emphasizing the critical importance of community service. I am especially grateful to Dr. Ryan Quarles for his leadership in organizing this initiative and for the opportunity to participate once again. Events like these remind us of the collective responsibility we bear to care for vulnerable families across the commonwealth.
As we navigate the remaining days of this session, the road ahead presents both opportunities for progress and complex challenges. Some issues will invite collaboration and consensus, while others will require robust debate and creative problem-solving. Every decision we make holds significant implications for the daily lives of Kentuckians, which is why your engagement is so vital. By sharing your experiences, concerns, and aspirations, you help ground our work in the realities faced by families and communities across the state. Together, we can build a future that uplifts all corners of Kentucky.
