Erika’s Update: March 3, 2025

It’s hard to believe that there are only a little more than two weeks left to the 2025 session of the Kentucky General Assembly. Things have accelerated significantly, and I am confident they will continue to become even more intense as we move forward.

Here is a look at what happened in last week’s session, a sneak peek of what is coming this week, and what is happening in the 57th District!

Senate Bill 79 Update

The session requires a lot of hard work, including many early mornings and late nights. Last week nearly 40 bills and resolutions cleared the chamber. Most got overwhelming, if not unanimous, support, but a few would have been better never having seen the light of day.

However, there are also enjoyable moments. This past week was especially memorable, as Jeff and I attended the Assembly Ball, where I was honored to be recognized as the guest of honor.

Senate Bill 79 Update

If you have called me and left a message about SB79 and I haven’t returned your call, I am working my way through my call list, but with several hundred calls, it’s taking a while to return all of them.

Here’s the latest: We are still in a waiting pattern to see what will happen (if anything) with SB79.

Last week’s House Standing Committee on State Government meeting did not take up the bill.

It’s important to note that the committee will only meet three more times before the end of the session. Based on my discussion with committee members, there is not much support for the bill, especially Senate Floor Amendment 1, but that could change.

I have had several productive discussions with Rep. James Tipton (R) of Taylorsville. If the bill does get out of committee, he is prepared to make a House Floor Amendment removing the provision to end remote work. I am grateful he has been willing to discuss this amendment and take the lead.

This is a step in the right direction, but I am hopeful it will never reach the house floor. If we pass a different version, there is no predicting what will happen in reconciliation, and if the bill comes back in the final hours of the session, organizing opposition becomes more difficult.

The agenda for this week’s committee meeting won’t be available until Wednesday. You can keep an eye on the agenda here: https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/CommitteeDocuments/93/

Again, I encourage you, your friends, and your family to keep up the pressure.

Bridge Update

The Transportation Cabinet has reduced the options to two moving forward. With time running out in this year’s session, tough decisions will need to be made soon regarding our immediate needs and what we can obtain in the short term. This is essential to maintain our progress until next year’s budget session.

I have and will continue to work with the City, the Governor’s Office, the Department of Transportation, and legislative leadership to get this done.

We truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this time. We know that it can be challenging, but we are all working together to create a safe crossing over the river at St. Clair / Bridge Street. Thank you for being there with us!

No on HB 398

I voted no on House Bill 398, which seeks to eliminate state-specific workplace safety regulations that have been established for decades. If this bill becomes law, it would mean reverting entirely to federal Occupational Safety and Health regulations, thereby undermining our right—shared by nearly 30 other states—to create rules that are more effectively tailored to our unique needs.

Kentucky workers are set to lose critical protections and essential guidance for those handling hazardous materials and high-voltage electrical lines. This dangerous shift will also place first responders, teachers, and other public-sector employees at significant risk, as it eliminates vital safety and health regulations governing their workplaces.

Yes, on HB 220

I voted yes on House Bill 220. This legislation is a crucial step in combating impaired driving, particularly for repeat offenders. The central provision imposes a Class D felony charge on anyone convicted of a third DUI within a decade, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison.

It is unacceptable that a felony charge is currently only applied after a fourth DUI; this bill ensures justice for those who repeatedly endanger our community.

Coming Up

I anticipate that a large number of bills will be introduced on the floor with the veto period beginning on March 15. It’s shaping up to be a busy time ahead!

I am deeply concerned about HB 495, a bill I recently opposed in committee. It’s disheartening to witness how the narrative around “Conversion Therapy” is framed as a “parental rights” issue, especially given the significant evidence highlighting its detrimental impact on young people’s mental health.

It’s also striking to see the inconsistency, as just last year, BS150 made decisions that restricted parents from seeking gender-affirming care for their children. It’s important for us to prioritize the well-being of young individuals and support families in navigating these complex issues.

ars for developers, local governments, non-profits, and homeowners through grants, loans, and tax credits. The legislation is called the Kentucky Housing Opportunity Act.

EVENTS