2026 Regular Session Closes

Sen. Steve Rawlings (District 11)
As lawmakers returned to Frankfort for the final two days of the 2026 session, the focus remained on completing legislative work and finalizing key policies that will shape Kentucky’s future. Even in the closing hours, both chambers continued working deliberately and efficiently, advancing measures designed to strengthen communities, support economic growth, and ensure state government remains responsive and accountable.

First and foremost, the General Assembly carried out its constitutional responsibility by overriding 30 of Governor Andy Beshear’s vetoes. These decisions reflect legislative priorities across a wide range of areas, including education, school governance, energy, elections, firearms, gaming, and early Medicaid-related reforms. While differences between the legislative and executive branches are part of the process, these actions underscore a commitment to policies we believe promote long-term stability, transparency, and responsible governance.

At the same time, more than 130 bills were signed into law this session, demonstrating that meaningful progress can still be achieved through collaboration. These measures reflect areas of shared agreement and highlight the importance of working across differences to deliver results for Kentuckians.

Among the final measures passed was House Bill 869, the revenue cleanup bill. While often considered technical in nature, legislation like this plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and accuracy of state government. The bill includes provisions supporting sustainable aviation fuel development, helping position Kentucky’s airports for long-term growth and increased economic opportunity. It also includes measures aimed at improving efficiency within the agricultural sector by helping producers reduce costs and move goods to market more effectively.

Additionally, the bill encourages redevelopment of underused office buildings in downtown Louisville through targeted tax incentives. As workplace trends continue to evolve, revitalizing these spaces is essential to supporting urban economic activity, attracting investment, and creating new opportunities for job growth.

Senate Bill 197, the appropriations cleanup bill, was also finalized in the closing days of the session. This legislation addresses necessary updates tied to HB 900 and ensures the state’s budget framework remains consistent, accurate, and fiscally responsible.

These bills were passed at the end of the session and are not protected from a potential veto, highlighting the importance of careful consideration and precision in the final stages of the legislative process.

Education funding remained a central priority throughout the session, reinforcing the importance of investing in Kentucky’s students, teachers, and schools as a foundation for long-term success.

This work reflects continued efforts to represent constituents and advance policies that support strong communities and a growing economy. Every decision made during the session is guided by the responsibility to serve the people of this district and the Commonwealth as a whole.

I was also happy to see key pieces of legislation I sponsored advance this session. Senate Bill 59 strengthens enforcement of Kentucky’s prohibition on taxpayer-funded advocacy, ensuring public resources are not used to influence elections and reinforcing government neutrality. Senate Bill 189 establishes a regulatory framework for virtual currency kiosks, including consumer protections, transaction limits, and oversight measures to guard against fraud and protect Kentucky consumers.

With the session complete, the Kentucky General Assembly has adjourned sine die and will return in January 2027 unless called into special session.