Damon Thayer Archives

Spring has arrived here in the Bluegrass State, and we find ourselves in the final stages of the 2024 Regular Session. We continue to apply the final touches to the biennial state budget and I am working hard to secure big budget wins for the 17th Senate District along with critical road projects in the…

The Senate brought forth its two-year state spending and proposal for transformational one-time project funding. These were proposed through Senate Committee Substitutes to House Bill (HB) 6 and HB 1. The top priority for the republican supermajorities is to continue lowering your income tax. Through comprehensive tax reforms since 2017, Kentucky has received record business…

This week marked the session’s inaugural gubernatorial veto with House Bill (HB) 18. The Governor’s veto was nothing short of a dismissal of property owners’ basic constitutional rights. The bill pre-empts unconstitutional local ordinances that would force those who provide housing options and property owners to accept federal programs. These programs often come with burdensome…

The Kentucky General Assembly has wrapped up the ninth legislative week of the 2024 Regular Session. The week marked the final period for lawmakers to submit new bills. By the end of the week, 838 bills were filed in the state House of Representatives and 382 in the state Senate. We celebrated Small Business Day…

After a long weekend dedicated to observing Presidents’ Day, the Kentucky General Assembly returned to Frankfort on Tuesday. The deadline for bill filings is approaching, so all proposals for consideration in Frankfort will be known by the close of next week.

Having passed the midpoint of the 2024 Regular Session, it’s a pivotal time to reflect and renew our dedication to our legislative responsibilities. With just under 30 legislative days remaining, we recommit ourselves to the crucial tasks that lie ahead. Throughout the session, we’ve had the privilege of hosting various student groups and esteemed guests…

The Senate recently received budget recommendations from the state House of Representatives. House Bill (HB) 1 and HB 6, along with related appropriation and revenue bills, will shape the state’s next two-year operating budgets for the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. In its unique constitutional role within the budget process, the Senate exercises patience in…

In the Kentucky Senate, our role is unique, particularly during the 60-day budget session. The Constitution of Kentucky clearly outlines any revenue-raising and, traditionally, appropriation measures that originate with the state House of Representatives. Also, traditionally, before the House submits a two-year state budget proposal, the executive branch provides its recommendations. After these initial proposals,…

The 2024 Legislative Session in Frankfort is nearing the one-third mark of the 60-day budget session, as Friday marked the 18th day. The committee process is picking up steam, and with that, more proposed bills are proceeding through the legislative process. Please check out the KYSenateRepublicans.com website to find press releases from the Senate Majority…