End of the 2026 Legislative Session
“As legislators returned to Frankfort for the final days of the 2026 Kentucky General Assembly, our focus was clear: finish strong and deliver results that matter to families across the commonwealth. Even in the closing hours, both chambers worked with discipline and purpose to advance policies that strengthen communities, support economic growth and keep Kentucky moving forward.
The General Assembly fulfilled its constitutional responsibility by overriding 30 vetoes issued by Governor Andy Beshear. These decisions reflect a shared commitment to policies we believe best serve Kentuckians, particularly in areas like education, school governance, energy, elections, firearms, gaming and early steps toward Medicaid reform. While differences between the legislative and executive branches are part of the process, our focus remains on long-term stability and responsible governance. At the same time, the governor signed more than 130 bills into law this session, showing there are still areas where we can come together and get things done.
Among the final measures passed was House Bill 869, the revenue cleanup bill. While it may not draw much attention, it plays an important role in keeping our state government running efficiently. It creates a framework for sustainable aviation fuel credits to help Kentucky’s airports stay competitive, makes it easier for farmers to bring products to market and supports agriculture by reducing costs and improving margins. The bill also addresses the needs of downtown Louisville by creating incentives to redevelop underused office buildings, encouraging new investment, job creation and renewed activity in the area.
Senate Bill (SB)197 makes targeted investments across several key areas. It restores support for local school districts implementing the new assessment and accountability system, strengthens local health departments and continues the work of transforming Kentucky State University into a residential polytechnic institution. It also supports completion of the Kentucky Exposition Center, funds a Louisville transportation tunnel feasibility study through the State Fair Board and improves oversight by the Kentucky Motor Vehicle Commission. Together, these efforts focus on strengthening education, public health, infrastructure and accountability while supporting long-term economic growth.
I’m pleased to say that, in addition to nuclear energy development policy and budget wins this session, in the final two days of session, final passage was given to Senate Concurrent Resolution 66. The resolution urges the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville to pursue participation in federal nuclear energy programs and expand academic pathways to train a future workforce. It encourages collaboration with federal partners to secure research funding and advance opportunities in nuclear energy development.
SB 66 was also passed. This bill modernizes Kentucky’s impaired driving laws to strengthen public safety and clarify enforcement. It codifies that refusing a blood test results in a court-ordered license suspension at arraignment, with additional suspension by the Transportation Cabinet upon a DUI conviction. It also updates per se DUI standards to include substances such as fentanyl, clonazepam, and cyclobenzaprine, and clarifies procedures for roadside breath tests, including a driver’s right to refuse without that refusal being used as evidence in court.
It is important to note that these bills, along with others, were passed in the final days of the session and will not be subject to veto.
At its core, this legislative work is about representation. The General Assembly is the branch of government closest to the people, and I take seriously the responsibility to listen, advocate and deliver on behalf of those I serve.
In the coming days, I will offer a more extensive wrap-up of this year’s legislative session. Please stay tuned.
With adjournment sine die, the General Assembly will not reconvene until January 5, 2027, unless called into extraordinary session. It is an honor to serve, and I remain focused on building a stronger, more prosperous Kentucky for all.
It is an honor to represent our community in Frankfort, and I appreciate the many conversations I’ve had with constituents throughout this session. Your perspectives help shape the work we do here, and I anticipate continuing that work on your behalf. Please contact my office if you have any concerns or suggestions. My office can be reached at 502-564-8100 or by email at Danny.Carroll@kylegislature.gov.”
