Week 1: 2025 Regular Session

Winter has hit Kentucky hard as we began the first week of the 2025 Regular Session. Snow and ice made for a tough start, and with more on the way, I want to thank the road crews and utility workers for working hard to keep our roads clear and the power on, as well as the dedicated state workers who enable us to fulfill our constitutional duties. We appreciate all that you do for our communities.

This week marked the start of our 30-day “short session,” which began with four productive days. We’ll return to Frankfort on Tuesday, February 4, to continue building on the work we’ve started.

One highlight of the week was a spirited and productive debate on the Senate Rules. These rules set the framework for how we work together to represent the people of Kentucky. While debate may sometimes highlight our differences, it also reminds us of how much we share in common. The majority and minority voices were both heard, and the discussion ultimately demonstrated our respect for one another and for the diverse range of Kentuckians we represent.

As I said on the Senate floor, the rules ensure that the minority gets its say, and the majority gets its way. This balance is vital for effective governance, especially in our part-time legislature, where time is limited, and we must accomplish a great deal in just 30 legislative days. Moments like these show that collaboration is not only possible—it’s essential for moving Kentucky forward.

One major development this week was the House’s advancement of House Bill (HB) 1. This legislation proposes another reduction in the state income tax, lowering individual income tax rates by an additional half-percent starting in January 2026. These reforms have already put $1.8 billion back into the hands of Kentuckians, and this bill builds on that success. The Senate will finalize HB 1 when we return in February.

The weeks ahead will be fast-paced as we tackle important issues for our commonwealth. I’m here to represent you and ensure your voice is heard in Frankfort.

Stay Connected

• Contact Lawmakers: Leave messages through the Legislative Research Commission’s toll-free line at 800-372-7181 or find your legislator at legislature.ky.gov using the “Find Your Legislator” tool.

• Track Bills and Meetings: Stay updated on legislative proceedings by visiting legislature.ky.gov, watching live at KET.org/Legislature, or accessing archived footage on the LRC YouTube Channel.