The first week of the Kentucky General Assembly’s 2019 Regular Session is in the books. We had a productive few days in Frankfort and leave in good spirits about what is to come this Session. This week, the Senate’s activity involved some procedural measures. Senator Robert Stivers (R-Manchester) will remain the Senate President and Senator … Continued
As 2018 comes to a close, I’d like to extend warm wishes and sincere hope that you and your loved ones enjoy a holiday season in good health and full of happiness. This year was momentous for the General Assembly as we passed pivotal legislation, traveled across the Commonwealth holding policy discussions, and recently finalized … Continued
In a recent diatribe, the “nattering nabobs” of the Herald-Leader’s editorial board determined Governor Bevin to be “scaremongering” and declared him “all wet.” Just what was the Governor’s transgression warranting such a screed? Governor Bevin told a group of local elected officials something they already knew: unless Kentucky’s public pension mess is addressed, we’re all … Continued
In May, the Republic of Ireland disappointingly voted to repeal one of the more restrictive abortion bans in the world. While those results from our friends across the Atlantic were discouraging, I am encouraged by the pro-life environment we have created right here in the Commonwealth. Passing pro-life legislation has been a priority of the … Continued
Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are the values on which our great nation was founded. Written in the Declaration of Independence, these words ring true for all Americans and have held fast for more than two centuries. Ratified on July 4, 1776, the Declaration has long been held in the hearts of the … Continued
Across the Bluegrass, Kentuckians await the arrival of Memorial Day weekend. As family and friends gather, it is imperative to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice protecting our country. The brave men and women who fought and died, defending the freedom we covet as Americans, deserve our respect and gratitude. Collectively, I ask that … Continued
The dust has settled on my 16th Legislative Session as a Kentucky State Senator, and I am proud of our work passing significant legislation to move the Commonwealth forward. This Session was one of the more difficult and contentious I have experienced, but we did our constitutional duty of passing a two-year state budget that … Continued
After a productive 58th day of the 2018 Legislative Session that saw the passing of several significant bills to benefit the Commonwealth, we have now entered a 10-day “veto recess” where Governor Matt Bevin will have the opportunity to sign and veto bills passed by the Kentucky General Assembly. The most significant measures to pass … Continued
The 2018 Session is quickly winding down as Thursday, March 29, marked Day 57 of the 60-day budget session. Budget negotiations are continuing with positive results, and the Senate gaveled in for two days to pass a number of bills including some aimed at helping our first responders and their families. Although the amount of … Continued
Rapidly nearing the last days of the 2018 Regular Session, the Senate passed our version of the state budget that contained no new taxes during the 12th week. The Executive Branch Budget, contained in House Bill 200, put an emphasis on public safety by investing in law enforcement, the state crime lab, frontline social workers, … Continued