With time running out on the 2019 session of the Kentucky General Assembly, a few notable bills appear to lack enough time to pass both chambers and others are still pending.
Teachers in at least four school districts were absent from their classrooms last week during “sick outs” to oppose legislation that would have given tax credits to Kentuckians who donate cash to help students with special needs in Kentucky attend a private school. Opponents of the bill say it would take away much-needed funding from public schools by reducing their number of students.
Eighth District state Representative Walker Thomas of Hopkinsville notes that bill was only discussed in a committee hearing and won’t be approved during this session.
Ninth District Representative Myron Dossett of Pembroke says many Republicans oppose the measure because it’s their goal to eliminate the income tax all together through broad tax reform over the next few years.
One education bill that isn’t dead is House Bill 41, which Representative Lynn Bechler of Marion says would allow students to use the KEES lottery money they’ve earned through good grades and attendance to attend a qualifying training program or apprenticeship after high school.
That bill passed the House and is awaiting a hearing in the Senate Education Committee.
Meanwhile, Senator Whitney Westerfield’s legislation to address disproportionate minority contact in the juvenile justice system isn’t going to receive passage in the 2019 session.
Hear local lawmakers discuss these topics and others during our Legislative Update program Sunday morning at 9 on Lite Rock 98.7 and online at lite987whop.com.