Lawmakers move to protect property owners with eminent domain changes
Rep. Marianne Proctor (District 60)
In Kentucky, that balance [between public need and private property rights] has taken an important step forward with the passage of House Bill 542. The new law strengthens safeguards for property owners, especially those whose land falls within agricultural districts or is protected by conservation easements. These are often central to the state’s farming heritage and environmental stewardship.
Voters to Decide Fate of Constitutional Amendment
Rep. Marianne Proctor (District 60)
Are you in favor of limiting a Governor’s ability to grant pardons or commute sentences by prohibiting him or her from granting pardons or commuting sentences during the time period beginning 60 days prior to the general election at which the Governor is elected, and ending when the Governor is sworn in for that term by amending the Constitution of Kentucky as stated below?
2026 Regular Session Closes
Sen. Steve Rawlings (District 11) recaps the 2026 Regular Session, noting that 130 bills were passed and the legislature overrode 30 vetoes by Gov. Andy Beshear.
State Budget Passes
Rep. Marianne Proctor (District 60) reviews the two-year budget passed by the General Assembly, noting that it “reflects the simple but significant idea most families already live by: spend responsibly, set priorities, and live within your means.” Also noted: “the state auditor has identified more than $1 billion in questioned costs, waste and mismanagement.”
Veto Session Legislative Update
Sen. Gex Williams (District 20)
We are now halfway through the veto period, and the governor has begun issuing decisions on legislation passed during this year’s session. Here is an update on several key vetoes and what they mean for the future.
Legislature Adjourns Ahead of Veto Session
Rep. Marianne Proctor (District 60)
As part of our system of checks-and-balances, governors have ten days (not including Sundays or holidays) to consider legislation approved by the legislature. They can sign it into law, veto it, or allow it to become law without their signature. If a governor chooses to veto legislation, the measure returns to the legislature where the veto can be overridden. Essentially, a veto provides notice that the state’s executive officer disagrees with a policy or action, but the legislature remains the state’s lawmaking body.
Week 13 Legislative Update
Sen. Steve Rawlings (District 13)
The 2026 Regular Session is the approaching the veto period, in which Gov. Andy Beshear has 10 days to sign, veto or allow to stand without action legislation passed by the General Assembly.
Week 12 Legislative Update
Sen. Steve Rawlings (District 11) recaps a flurry of legislation as the Regular Session nears its end. During the Veto Recess, April 2-13, the governor will consider whether to sign or veto legislation or allow legislation to stand with no action. The legislature reconvenes April 14-15 to consider veto overrides and any remaining business.
Week 11 Legislative Update
Sen. Steve Rawlings (District 11)
The Kentucky State Senate passed what Sen. Rawlings describes as a “balanced and responsible state budget that protects taxpayers, strengthens essential services and positions Kentucky for long-term stability.”
Road and Infrastructure Proposals Move
Rep. Marianne Proctor (District 60)
Lawmakers focused on bills and resolutions that establish the funding framework for the state’s six-year roadmap for constructing and maintaining roads, bridges, and other critical transportation infrastructure.