BY JASON HOWELL
Kentucky State Senator
As the Kentucky General Assembly enters the ninth week of the 2026 Legislative Session, our work in Frankfort continues to move forward at a steady pace. With only a few weeks remaining in the 60-day session, much of our focus is on advancing legislation through the process while continuing discussions on the state budget.
Passing a balanced two-year budget is one of the most important responsibilities the General Assembly has during even-numbered years. Budget discussions are ongoing as lawmakers review spending priorities, agency requests and the commonwealth’s long-term fiscal outlook. The House of Representatives has advanced its initial proposal, and the Senate will carefully review and amend the plan. As conversations continue, my focus remains on ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly while maintaining the core services Kentucky families rely on.
Earlier this session, the Senate Majority Caucus identified 10 priority pieces of legislation aimed at addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our commonwealth. I’m pleased to report that all 10 Senate priority bills have now been filed. Several have already passed the Senate and are now being considered by the House of Representatives, while others continue advancing through committee hearings.
These measures address a range of issues, including education, economic development, and regulatory reform. Many of these proposals were developed during the interim months through conversations with constituents, local leaders and stakeholders across Kentucky.
Several bills have passed the Senate this week including one I sponsored. Senate Bill (SB) 199 which approves a pesticide label by the U.S. EPA to be used as a warning label under Kentucky law for state duty-to-warn claims. It effectively aligns Kentucky law with EPA standards while preserving liability from manufacturers.
SB 8, a priority bill, modernizes Kentucky’s Public Service Commission to improve oversight and expertise in regulating utilities. It increases the commission from three to five members, sets qualifications, requires political balance and formalizes it as an independent state agency. The law ensures the PSC is an independent entity that will receive administrative support from the state auditor's office. It also clarifies rules for reviewing electric projects, and sets standards related to those who may intervene in a case while maintaining organizations ability to bring concerns before the commission.
SB 11 creates a rebate program to help homeowners build FEMA-compliant storm shelters that are open to neighbors during emergencies. The program covers up to $5,000 or 50 percent of construction costs and prioritizes community safety by requiring shelters to be listed for public use during severe weather. The program will be supported through gifts and grants, not state funds.
SB 34 allows Kentuckians to transfer a home or vehicle directly to a named beneficiary at death without going through probate. Like naming a beneficiary on a bank account, the owner keeps full control during life and may change or revoke the designation at any time. Ownership transfers only at death, and existing