LRC Senate Legislative Session Day 34 [Source] Translate

The meeting began with an invocation by Deacon Michael Lynch and the Pledge of Allegiance. A roll call confirmed the presence of 33 members, establishing a quorum, while absent senators were excused. The journal from the previous meeting was approved. Guests, including local officials and city mayors, were welcomed, and those watching via live stream were acknowledged. The House communicated the passage of several bills and requested the Senate's concurrence. During the second reading of bills, Senate Bill 37, 157, 189, 214, and Senate Joint Resolution 54 were referred to the Rules Committee. The Appropriations and Revenue Committee reported favorably on Senate Bill 11, 41, 57, 59, 125, and 191. The Health Services Committee and the Natural Resources and Energy Committee also reported favorably on their respective bills. New bills and resolutions introduced included Senate Bill 244, 245, and Senate Resolutions 117 and 118. Senate Bill 33 and 56 were noted to be passed over. Senate Bill 98, concerning welding safety, was taken for a third reading. The bill aims to ensure that welding on specific projects meets American Welding Society standards for public safety. It passed with 33 votes in favor and 4 against. Senate Bill 122, addressing alternative sentences, was discussed next. It aims to reduce the impact of parental incarceration on children in Kentucky by allowing judges to consider caregiving responsibilities. An amendment to expand the definition of a caretaker was adopted, and the bill passed with 35 votes in favor and 2 against, with members expressing support for the collaborative efforts behind the legislation. The meeting included discussions on the importance of keeping families together, with several senators advocating for legislation that strengthens family structures. Reports from the Rules Committee and the Committee on Committees included the posting and referral of various bills for future consideration. House Bill 1 was taken from the Education Committee for its first reading and returned. Senate Resolution 57, honoring Father Patrick McDowell on his ordination, was adopted unanimously. Announcements were made regarding upcoming meetings, including a special Health Services Committee meeting on artificial intelligence in rural health, and a reception hosted by the Kentucky Aviation Association. Senate Resolution 60, honoring the YMCA on its 175th anniversary, was read in full and adopted, recognizing the organization's contributions to community health and well-being. Senators announced upcoming events, including a Black History Celebration and the Assembly Ball at the Governor's Mansion. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn until 2 p.m. on February 26, 2026.