Ted’s Frankfort Report
By Teddy Edmonds
State Representative D-Jackson
Breathitt Online News Click Here
Week of May 5, 2008
FRANKFORT – I'd like to share one last look with you at the 2008 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly before we move on.
Safeguarding our children's education is one of the most crucial things our legislature can do. In fact, the courts have ruled that we're responsible for good schools in this commonwealth, and we take that responsibility seriously. That's not only because good schools produce upstanding citizens, but also because intelligent kids mean a brighter future for all of us. They attract jobs, plain and simple.
With an eye on that economic development, we passed Senate Bill 2, aimed at helping more students achieve high goals in math and science. Starting in elementary school, students will be given every opportunity to take challenging coursework in science and math, two areas where the U.S. is falling behind compared to other nations. By the time they reach high school, we hope, they'll be ready to take Advanced Placement courses that will prepare them for college-level work. Actually, if they do well on their final exams, they'll get college credit, saving their families tuition money.
The state will also pay for all students' AP exams, not just in science and math, but in all subject areas, from English Literature to U.S. History. While Math and science are the places we want to focus, all students should be encouraged to take tough classes that will challenge them, regardless of where their interests lie.
SB 2 will help all schools offer these tougher classes, even the smaller schools. And where they can't take it in a regular classroom, Kentucky Virtual High School will make sure all students have that access.
Looking ahead to summer activities, I'm so excited about this year's Fourth Annual Fifty Mile Yard Sale, along its traditional route on Highway 52 between Jackson and the Estill-Madison County line. This wonderful event has grown each year it's been held, and everyone involved has had great to say about it, from the vendors to our visitors. It's been an outstanding way for people to get out and see their neighbors as well as the beautiful scenery that surrounds us here in our area.
This year's Fifty Mile Yard Sale is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 4-5. As we get closer to that date, I'll be able to talk about more details. But as always, feel free to call me if you'd like more information on how to get involved.
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of April 28, 2008
FRANKFORT – Once again I want to fill you in on some of the bills passed this spring that will affect all Kentuckians. One of the biggest new laws will be House Bill 2, something that could help all of us cut our energy bills and take a tax break at the same time.
House Bill 2 will create a tax incentive for homeowners and businesses that invest in energy-saving projects from solar energy to better insulation to energy-efficient HVAC units. There are also plans in HB 2 to make sure state buildings, including schools, are "green" in the future, cutting down on utility bills and saving taxpayers money.
The last few years we've focused on ways to help our coal industry so that our nation can wean itself off foreign oil. Now our aim to is complement those efforts with ways to cut down on all energy consumption. In the end, it will mean more money in your pocket and less money in the pockets of overseas oil executives.
Another bill we passed, one that I was pleased to co-sponsor, was House Bill 717, which will give our local communities a larger say in how we use money to clean our waterways. Local Stream Restoration and Mitigation Authorities would be able to not only restore waterways that have been damaged and polluted, but also take steps to keep them clean in the first place. One problem with the current law is that all stream mitigation money is paid into a state fund, but the money isn't necessarily spent where it's collected. This will give our local communities the chance to deal with the problems ourselves by keeping the money right here at home.
We also took a bold step at protecting our children from sexual predators with House Bill 211. This bill will expand the number of children covered by our sex abuse laws, creating harsher penalties for those who molest teenagers. A big component of the bill targets teachers, coaches, clergymen and others in positions of power. HB 211 will raise the age of "consent" to 18, up from 16. This hits back at those who focus in on kids once they turn 16, the current legal limit. These students are still under their influence and can face retribution for refusing their advances, and it's high time we protect them while they're still vulnerable.
Finally, we made a move that we hope will allow us to catch more criminals into the future. Among other things, House Bill 683 will require all felons, as well as violent juvenile offenders, to give a DNA sample. This will help many unsolved cases to be broken in the future because we'll have a database of known felons. If they commit crimes again, we'll be able to quickly round them up.
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of March 17, 2008
FRANKFORT – For all the work we do each spring during the legislative session, nothing is more important than the budget. In fact, it's the only thing the state constitution says we need to do.
Considering the way our economy looked when we arrived in January, we weren't sure what drastic cuts might have to be made. I was pleased to see our budget committee was able to come up with a plan that works. As others have said, it's not a perfect budget, or even a good budget, necessarily. But considering the circumstances, it's a realistic budget that makes tough choices to get us through the next two years and keeps Kentucky moving forward.
Our budget committee and staff found several ways to save money, from refinancing bonds at a better interest rate to making state workers more efficient during the coming wave of retirements.
The budget bill, HB 406, is paired with another bill, HB 262, that will help raise some of the money to pay for K-12 and college education, health departments, Medicaid and KCHIP, and public safety programs such as jails. All these areas of governments were facing 12 percent cuts if we didn't find a way to save money and raise new revenue, and our neediest citizens would have suffered most, so I'm glad we were able to find a solution, as painful as it may be.
I was also happy that we were able to make some inroads toward economic development. Other states are moving forward, not standing still, and if we want to compete for jobs for our families, we have to invest in our future, even when times are tough. Water and sewer projects will be moving ahead, and we'll be investing money in the Bucks for Brains program to lure high-quality research professors to our state universities, too. Bucks for Brains has already proven to be a great tool for creating jobs throughout the state, and I expect that to continue.
The budget we passed this past week is not the final word on state spending, however. The Senate is now reviewing the budget and will pass its own plan, and then leaders from both chambers will sit down to work out a compromise. The governor will also be able to veto out specific spending items when it crosses his desk, as well. All this needs to happen by April 15, but I have faith our state leaders will work quickly to make sure all Kentuckians have a bright future.
A lot of work remains to be done in the days we have left, on a wide range of issues. If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of March 3, 2008
FRANKFORT – Our House budget committee spent the weekend in Frankfort, looking over ways to save money and to increase revenue without putting more of a burden on Kentucky taxpayers. As a way to make sure all Kentuckians are getting their money's worth, we passed an incredibly significant piece of legislation last week, House Bill 600.
HB 600 would reform our state pension plan, something that affects all taxpayers whether they work for the state or not. As people live longer and medical costs escalate, it costs more to pay for state workers' retirement. If we don't do something soon, the Kentucky Retirement System will be bankrupt in the next decade. Because we're bound by state law to pay their retirement costs, however, we can't just start over — we'd have to pay $2 billion a year to pay for retirees' pension and health insurance costs, money we don't have and can't afford, because it would take away from schools, corrections, Medicaid, and other important programs that affect all Kentuckians.
The bill we passed would institute some basic changes, like requiring most workers to stay on the job for 30 years before they can collect a pension, up from the current 27 years. They'd all pay 6 percent of their salary into the pension plan, rather than the current 5 percent.  Most hazardous duty employees — police officers, firefighters, and other workers in dangerous jobs — could retire after 25 years rather than the current 20. By requiring more years paying into the system, we'll reduce the number of years employees draw out of the system, helping to return the program to fiscal sanity.
We also brought cost-of-living increases back into line so that pensions will be contained each year. State employees' pension raises each year will now match teachers' at 1.5 percent annually, with any additional increases decided by the General Assembly each budget cycle.
Of course, all these changes would only affect new employees, not current workers and retirees. State law requires us to keep their benefits as they were when they first began working for the state. HB 600 now goes to the Senate, which will review the plan and make any changes it finds necessary.
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of February 18, 2008
FRANKFORT – Between the Presidents Day holiday and terrible weather late last week, we only had three days to work on legislative matters. Still, we managed to tackle some tough issues.
We passed House Concurrent Resolution 111, which urges Congress to restore $20 million federal student aid funding that was cut in recent years. Our own state budget will require us to make some tough decisions on the budget, and Gov. Beshear's proposal will already ask for sacrifices from higher education. We're taking every step we can to find funding for our college students, but asking the federal government to step up to their responsibilities is also necessary, especially in light of the massive rally by college students here in Frankfort last week.
We also passed House Bill 207, which would create a special "In God We Trust" license plate to allow citizens to express their faith. The extra money Kentuckians pay for one of these plates would go toward the state's Veterans Program Trust Fund. If the Senate agrees, the plate would be sold as soon as 900 people sign up to use it, which we think wouldn't take very long.
Two other bills we approved have the aim of protecting our children. Like other steps we've taken to keep dangerous Internet predators away from our children, House Bill 367 would allow us to expand our efforts. The bill would prohibit registered sex offenders from using social networking sites like MySpace or Facebook as well as instant messaging programs. It's easy for these predators to go online and lure students into doing things and meeting people they would otherwise avoid. The bill would also allow ordinary citizens to help police by acting as decoys for sexual predators.
Finally, we approved House Bill 396, a controversial measure but one I think will help protect our children as long as they live. This bill would require girls between ages 9 and 12 to receive the immunization against HPV, which can lead later in life to cervical cancer. The state would pay the costs for those who can't afford it, and although it's "required," parents could ask that their daughters not receive the shot, and their wishes would be honored. The HPV vaccine was developed at the University of Louisville, and we think it's only proper to make Kentucky a trendsetter by protecting women's health this way.
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of February 4, 2008 2-16-08
FRANKFORT – Probably the biggest news to come out of the Capitol this week involved, what else, the budget. Gov. Beshear delivered his spending plan for the next two years to a joint session of the House and Senate, and the news isn't pretty. The governor's plan involves severe cuts to higher education, but preserves base funding for our K-12 schools. Medicaid and prison spending would grow, but just enough to keep those programs running, since they're the two fastest-growing areas of our state budget.
Of course, the governor's proposal isn't the final budget. Our House Appropriations and Revenue Committee is already looking over the plan and what changes need to be made. The entire House will vote on the budget in a month or so, and then the Senate will have its crack at our spending plan. I'll keep you updated with more specifics in the weeks to come.
One bill we passed this week has the potential to save taxpayers money in the years to come. House Bill 18 would eliminate the runoff primary in the governor's race. Under the current law, we could have a second primary in late June if no one gets 40 percent of the votes in either primary. We've never had to use this law since it took effect in 1995, but we had a close call last year, when Gov. Beshear got 41 percent in the Democratic primary. If we need the runoff, it costs $1,500 per precinct, which adds up to $5 million or so statewide. That's money we don't have, and now that we have two strong parties for each general election, we can be sure that whoever becomes governor has earned the people's vote.
We also passed House Bill 91 this past week to make sure that all our children can feel safe at school. The "bullying bill" would not only mandate that schools have a policy in oplace to deal with bullies, but also that kids who are picked on learn how to deal with the harassment and abuse. Building self-confidence and respect for others are keys to raising children who want to learn, and we hope this legislation would allow our children to grow like they should, both physically and emotionally.
Finally, we took steps this week to tighten ethics restrictions on state government. House Bill 250 will help eliminate conflicts of interest that often occur when decision-makers leave state government to work in the private sector.
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of January 28, 2008
FRANKFORT – Whatever we do during our legislative workday, the men and women of our armed forces are never far from our minds. Each year we try to take another step or two toward helping these brave souls live a better life when they return. It's not nearly enough to thank them for the sacrifices they and their families have made, but we do what we can.
This past week the House passed two bills to help our military men and women when they return from service. Both bills passed the House last year but weren't able to make it into law. I have faith the result will be different this year.
House Bill 57 would help our veterans in their job search by increasing their chances of being hired by the state, by granting them interviews for those jobs they apply for. If those happy cases where more than five veterans apply, at least five would have to be interviewed. More than 30,000 people work for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and we can always use people with practical job skills like those used by the military. The taxpayers are better served by people who recognize how important following orders and attention to detail can be, as well.
House Bill 168 would give veterans returning from duty 90 days to renew an expired driver's license. The way its stands now, they can be charged with driving on an expired license the moment they take the wheel when they get home. We know they have an important reason for not renewing their license when they should, and there's no reason we can't allow them this simple dignity.
Another piece of legislation we passed this week doesn't directly relate to the military, but certainly involved an important part of military history. House Joint Resolution 6 would allow for a state curriculum on the Holocaust and other forms of genocide. Schools wouldn't have to teach lessons on these horrible parts of world history, but we hope they would show their students this important civics lesson. Millions of men and women, including hundreds of thousands of U.S. soldiers, sailors, and airmen, died fighting Hitler during World War II.
It's easy for the numbers to grow so big that we lose sight that each one represents a person killed because of hatred. Six million Jews, gypsies, and others died because of that kind of hate, and we hope this curriculum will help make sure that if someone like Hitler comes to power again, our children and grandchildren will have the courage and historical knowledge to fight as our forefathers did.
We're very busy at the Capitol, but we're only getting started. If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

1-28-08
FRANKFORT – Legislators are back in Frankfort, and there will be a lot of tough decisions to make over the next three months. Of course, I say that every year, but this session will be especially tough because of the budget situation. Our statewide economy is lagging a bit, so we don't expect to have as much money as we'd like when the new budget starts on July 1. To add insult to injury, receipts were down the last couple of months meaning the money we expected to have is not there. The governor has already ordered some belt-tightening, and we expect his budget proposal to be pretty slim in terms of discretionary spending.
As the Senate President said, though, this is not a crisis. It's an opportunity to re-think our priorities, and make sure we only spend the money — your tax money — that we really need to, and that will really help all the people of our commonwealth. When I think in those terms, my mind focuses on two things that are very closely related: infrastructure and economic development.
Probably the biggest outcry over the governor's proposed budget cuts has been related to cuts in education, both K-12 and at our colleges and universities. It's a double-edged sword: every part of state government needs to find ways to save money and run more efficiently, but we also need to make sure we give our children every opportunity to succeed. If they don't have the ability to compete for high-paying jobs, we've failed as leaders. Times are going to be tight during this budget cycle, but we'll do our best to make sure our schools at every level can provide our children with the best education possible.
We also need to make sure that we're providing quality roads as well as water and sewer lines for both our citizens and business community. There's nothing so essential to having a good quality of life as having clean water and a sewer system to get rid of waste. Good roads are also key to making sure people can make a living for themselves and their families. If we have good schools, good roads, and good utilities, businesses are also more likely to expand here, and that helps all of us. I can assure you I'll fight to make sure our area gets everything it needs to compete for those jobs.
I'll be writing every week now to keep you informed, but I can't fit everything into my weekly column. If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of January 21, 2008
FRANKFORT – We began this week, our first full week at the Capitol, by listening to Gov. Beshear deliver his State of the Commonwealth Address Monday night. I was encouraged to hear him speak the hard truth — that times are tough, and we're going to have to tighten our belts. The governor will speak again to us later this month, when he details for us his budget proposal.
The real work of passing legislation started this week, and already bills are being voted on by the full House of Representatives. One bill I am especially proud of that passed this week was House Bill 51, which would help our young people avoid irresponsible debt.  The bill would require our public colleges and universities to provide incoming students with information on credit cards on debt management.
Too many young people go off to college, are on their own for the first time, and don't yet appreciate the power of interest. It's easy to spend too much money when all you have to do is slide a plastic card through a scanner. School is expensive enough as it is, and too many students graduate with an incredible amount of debt in student loans; add credit card debt to the mix, and it's even more difficult to get a head start on life, even with a college degree.
HB 51 fits in perfectly with our goals of helping all Kentuckians at all stages of life to gain better financial literacy and learn how to handle their money better. I hope we'll all use sound financial practices when it comes to writing the budget over the next few months.
Another piece of legislation that involves education was approved by a House committee, but hasn't been heard by the full House yet. House Joint Resolution 6 would require state education leaders to create coursework to teach our students about the Holocaust. The further we get from that era in world history, the more difficult it is to reinforce in our children how important it is to remember what happened in Nazi Germany. We hope that we can create the proper curriculum while survivors and World War II veterans are still around to help us do it.
The last bill I want to talk about is ethics legislation that the governor has pushed for. HB 250 is a bipartisan effort to tighten up the rules governing state officers. It's been difficult to pass ethics legislation in recent years without one side or the other saying they've been targeted. Early on in a new governor's term is the perfect time to agree on the rules we should all live by. Hopefully we'll be able to move this bill quickly, because nothing frustrates people more than "business as usual."
If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

Week of December 24, 2007
FRANKFORT – The year 2008 is knocking on our doors now, and it's the traditional time to look back at the previous year and think about where we've been, what we've done, and what's happened to those around us. It's a natural time of reflection, and of course we all resolve to do better in the coming year. There's no need to wait until a new year arrives before we try to improve ourselves, just like there's no need to wait until a particular time to start a diet, but it's a convenient measuring point, isn't it?
In that spirit, I'm going to try to be a better person and a better representative for you in Frankfort in 2008. We'll be in Frankfort for 60 days during this "long" session, beginning on January 8 and ending on April 15. During that time, we'll consider hundreds of proposed bills, but since this is an even-numbered year, one bill takes priority — the state's two-year budget. Times are tight, we are told, and so we'll do our best to spend your tax dollars wisely. At the same time, there are cases where we need to issue bonds — the state's way of borrowing money — because the need is so great that we can't afford to delay the purchase.
We can all do better in our personal lives and in our professional lives. I do my best each day for the people of Breathitt, Estill, and Lee counties, and for all Kentuckians, for that matter. That doesn't mean I can't do better, though. Here are the ways I'm going to try to serve you better in 2008:
When we discuss road projects to put in the state budget, I'll make sure my counties get their fair share, but I won't take money just to be greedy. If we don't a new road in a particular area, we shouldn't ask for it. I'm sure you'd rather have your tax money back than a re-paved road that doesn't need it.
The same goes for water and sewer projects. We have areas that need them, and we have areas that are fine the way they are. You sent me to Frankfort to know the difference.
Every vote I cast, I'll keep in mind the impact on you, not just the lobbyists.
I'll do my level best to make sure other legislators act the same way.
I'll keep you updated throughout the legislative session on what's happening, but don't wait for me to write to you. If you ever have any questions about what's happening in Frankfort, call our legislative message line at 1-800-372-7181. If you need to speak to me directly, call my office at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.
Have a wonderful new year!

Week of November 19, 2007
FRANKFORT – This year has flown by, hasn't it? It doesn't seem that long ago that we were celebrating the holidays with our families and friends, and here it is time to get together with them again.
We all know the story of how the Pilgrims and the Native Americans came together to celebrate the first harvest by the new settlers in 1621. They ate and entertained each other for three days.
But why, exactly, did these groups come together? They weren't always friendly — they cooperated at times, but violence on both sides toward the other was fairly common as they fought for survival. The answer, in a way, is simple. They understood that, despite their differences, they both obeyed a higher power, even though they saw Him differently. We can take a lesson from that. The things that bring us together are stronger than the things that tear us apart, and we can always find common ground.
Too often these days, we hear talk about red states and blue states, sometimes even red counties and purple counties. But we all live side by side, and there are many common values we all share, despite all the political rhetoric. Our visions for the future are largely the same; we just have different visions of how we can get there.
This is also a time to see the good in all the people in our lives, despite the petty annoyances that bring us down throughout the year. We all have that family member who relies on us a little too much, or a co-worker who could do a larger share of what needs to be done. Deep down, though, we all have a lot of good qualities, and we should be thankful we have them in our lives.
You know,  we celebrate Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November each year, but it wasn't always that way. Congress didn't approve a set date until 1941. Any date could have been Thanksgiving, just as any day can still be, and should be, and day to count your blessings and appreciate all that you have. We spend so much time focusing on what we need or what we want, that we don't truly enjoy the things we already have. Not just material goods, but the people in our lives and the simple comforts they provide.
Of course, not everyone has as much to be thankful for. We should keep them in our hearts as well, and do what we can to make their holidays a little brighter — not just the poor of wealth or the poor of health, but the poor of spirit need just as much from their neighbors. Don't forget them.
If you or someone you know needs help, you should know I'm always available to talk and find assistance. Don't hesitate to call my office at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181

Week of November 5, 2007
FRANKFORT – I can't help but think every year at this time how appropriate it is that Election Day and Veterans Day occur so close together. Kentuckians had the chance to vote for several statewide officials this week, and on Monday we will once again honor those men and women who served in uniform on Veterans Day.
It's a coincidence, I know, that World War I ended just days after the elections in 1918, beginning our tradition of honoring veterans on November 11. All the same, it just feels right that we do these two things so closely together — we exercise our right to choose our government leaders. and then we pay tribute to the men and women who helped ensure that we have that right in the first place.
There are precious few soldiers and sailors remaining from that first Veterans Day, or Armistice Day as it was first known. World War I ended 89 years ago, but there are still a few people left who served. The number of World War II veterans passing away is also increasing, so I hope all of us can pay them the respect they're due while they can appreciate it.
Speaking of democracy and veterans, finding ways to show the men and women who have served in uniform, as well as those who are currently serving, will be high on the agenda when the General Assembly returns to Frankfort in January. Among the priorities will be income tax relief for active-duty soldiers and their families.
Of course, there will be many other items to be decided in 2008. We have some encouraging news on the progress of our schools, and we have to make sure that continues. The bridge collapse in Minneapolis has focused our attention on the state of our roads and bridges, and how we make sure they're safe for everyone. Health insurance costs are still going up for everyone, and we need to find ways to keep those costs affordable. After all, insurance is expensive, but not as expensive as not having it when you need it.
On top of all that, we must decide on a budget for the next two years. I was incredibly proud of my fellow legislators for agreeing on a budget on time in 2006, and I hope this bipartisan cooperation will continue in 2008. When it comes down to it, we're all Kentuckians, and we have to work together for a better future. As our state motto says, "United we stand, divided we fall."
No matter what time of year it is, though, you should make your voice heard, and I want to hear what you have to say. For that matter, if you have any questions or concerns, I hope you'll call me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181.


Week of September 24, 2007
FRANKFORT – I want to get away from talking about politics and the big issues this week. Instead, I want to talk about the things that really end up mattering in life — the people and natural beauty around us. Two events coming up put the spotlight on those two things.
On Friday, October 5, the third annual Breathitt County Days will be celebrated at the VFW Hall on 104 Second Street in Frankfort, just down the street from the State Capitol.  Over the years, so many Breathitt Countians have moved away from our home area and become very successful life, but they've never forgotten where they came from. This is a great opportunity for folks to meet up with old friends and all the people you always wondered about after they left town.
Breathitt County Days is scheduled from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., so that will leave plenty of time, both before and after, to do a little bit of sightseeing in our state capital, or visit with others. In the past we've sat around talking with each other while we eat bologna sandwiches and Moon Pies and sip on RC Cola. We've also made a videotape of the people there reliving their memories and talking about life in Breathitt County. I hope you'll be able to join us for this year's event.
The other event I want to invite you to is the annual Natural Bridge State Park Association meeting the next Friday, October 12. The free event will begin with a reception at 6 p.m. at the park's Activity Center, and our special guest and keynote speaker, Mayor Jim Newberry of Lexington, will speak at 7 p.m.
We'll have a delicious meal prepared by the park's chef, and the late Richard Jett's Appalachian Troubadours will provide the musical entertainment. This a great opportunity to get up to one of the most beautiful parks in the state, if not the entire nation. If you've never been to Natural Bridge State Resort Park, you're really missing a treat. Between Natural Bridge and the Red River Gorge Geological Area, we have some of the world's most spectacular scenery right in our own backyard.  While the bridge itself is a sight to behold and everyone should climb to its top once in their life, there are so many other things to do! You can hike, swim, boat or canoe, dance, or just relax and enjoy the natural wildlife.
There are so many people and places to get excited about right here in our own community; it would be a shame not to take advantage of it all. If you have any questions about these events, or about anything else you want to know about the goings-on in Frankfort, I hope you'll contact me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181.

Week of September 17, 2007
FRANKFORT – We spend a lot of our time in Frankfort dealing with education issues, and for a good reason. We spend about 45 percent of the state budget each year on K-12 education, and even more than that when you include our public colleges and universities. Many people are shocked to find out that the federal government only spends a tiny fraction on our schools — less than 10 percent of the total. Most of the money that supports our schools comes from the state and local governments, so we take that role seriously.
For obvious reasons, we spend most of our time in K-12 education dealing with issues that affect all students, but at a recent meeting in Frankfort we looked at the concerns and needs of another group of children — the "exceptionally gifted" kids who are already excelling. It's easy to overlook their needs because they have high test scores, they succeed in the classroom, and they generally cause the least worry among their parents and teachers.
The Kentucky Education Reform Act, and our role as educators, mandates that we help all students achieve to their best ability, though. For some students, straight A's is only the beginning of what they can do. That's why we were glad to hear about two programs for our most academically gifted students — the Governor's Scholars Program during the summer for rising high school seniors, and the Carol Martin Gatton Academy for Mathematics and Science in Kentucky for juniors and seniors during the school year.
GSP has been around for 25 years, and it's grown through the years. The five-week summer program exposes more than 1,000 Kentucky students to a broad range of high-level study opportunities, all on a college campus here in Kentucky.
The Gatton Academy is a two-year program for juniors and seniors interested in math and science. Students live on campus in a special dorm at Western Kentucky University and can earn up to two years of college credit, not just in math and science, but across the whole spectrum of college courses.
Both of these programs have admitted that they don't enroll enough students from Eastern Kentucky. They've said that they will do more outreach to connect with these students, not least because reaching out to them now will help keep them in Kentucky when they go to college and enter the workforce. Our state's economic development depends on attracting high-paying jobs here in Kentucky, and this is one way to do that.
We shouldn't wait for them to come to us, though. If you have a child who may be interested in these programs, please contact me, or better yet, your school's principal and guidance counselor.

FRANKFORT — Rep. Ted Edmonds, D-Jackson, chaired the legislature's Subcommittee on Elementary and Secondary Education last week. The meeting discussed programs available to Kentucky's academically gifted students. Edmonds serves as the panel's House Co-Chair, guiding the committee's work along with Senate Co-Chair Sen. Vernie McGaha, R-Russell Springs.
Photo by Bud Kraft, Legislative Research Commission

Week of August 27, 2007
FRANKFORT – Next Monday, September 3, our nation will celebrate Labor Day, our lone holiday dedicated to the working men and women who have made our economy the greatest in the history of the world. Two things have made the United States the superpower that it is today — our military strength and our economic strength. Labor Day is the day for all of us to celebrate our contributions to American society.
To that end, the timing was excellent for our recent special session, which I hope will go a long way toward creating more high-paying jobs for Kentuckians of all stripes, as well as strengthen our national security. House Bill 1, which I co-sponsored along with 31 of my House colleagues, creates incentives for coal-based fuels, biomass, ethanol and biodiesel fuels, not to mention renewable energy sources like wind and solar power, to invest here in Kentucky. The great things about these sources of energy is that they can all be produced right here in America, without relying on hostile countries in the Middle East, Africa, or South America, that are more worried about power and wealth for their leaders than peace and stability around the world.
The bill we will lure jobs to Kentucky, not just when the facilities are up and running, but during the construction phase, too. In fact, there are extra incentives to companies that hire mostly Kentuckians during the construction phase.
Many people have called this a "Peabody bill" because of the large coal company that is considering a huge coal-to-gas facility here in the state. There are a lot of aspects to this legislation, though, that go above and beyond what you've heard. There's a loan forgiveness program, much like the programs for teachers and doctors in rural Eastern Kentucky, that would encourage Kentucky students to attend in-state schools, major in engineering, chemistry, geology, and related fields, and then stay in state to work in the energy field. We can all benefit from a program like that.
Small business are eligible for tax credits based on new investments they make than can save at least 15% off their energy bills, and there's a comprehensive statewide initiative for the government to design "green" buildings that save energy and money, not to mention hybrid fuel vehicles and others that save gas.
Finally, there's millions of dollars in research funded by House Bill 1, research by our universities, other public agencies, and by private industry that will help us restore Kentucky to prominence in the world of energy. We have too many resources not to take advantage of them.
Our greatest resource in Kentucky, though, is our people, especially our children. I'm especially proud of them this Labor Day.

Week of July 2, 2007
FRANKFORT – Two hundred thirty-one years ago this week, a group of colonial leaders met in Philadelphia and approved a document spelling out their reasons for a break with Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence, as originally written by Thomas Jefferson, started off with three notions that, while common sense today, were pretty groundbreaking back then.
The first notion was that when men decide to wage war for their freedom, it's only sensible to tell people why, so that they may judge for themselves. Up until this point, many soldiers around the world simply fought for their king, or prince, or whatever other ruler they lived under. It's important to remember that even at its founding, the United States was more about the idea of freedom and liberty, not about the property one lived on, or other material things. Our soldiers were not fighting for any one man — they were fighting for themselves and their freedoms.
The second notion uses the quote most people remember: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed, by their Creator, with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." Of course, we still had slaves at the time, Native Americans were treated like savages, and men who didn't own land couldn't vote. (Not to mention women, who were also treated as property to a large degree.) This is one part of the Declaration we're still trying to live up to in this country. But America is a land of ideals. We're not a perfect nation, but we're trying to move forward and become better. We do that by sharing with others the blessings of liberty, not keep them only for ourselves and others just like us.
Finally, our Founding Fathers talked about the powers of the government and how they come from the people. True power in our democracy comes from the common men and women, not the leaders who make the laws. We do not elect Kings or Queens for life, and our President and Congress do not have unlimited powers. They are answerable to us, not just on Election Day, but every day. The key to our democracy's strength is remembering that we have to tell our leaders what to do, not just accept their actions as "the way it is." That is how we honor our ancestors, by keeping their revolutionary spirit alive.
Also, don't forget about this Saturday's Highway 52 Fifty Mile Yard Sale between Jackson and the Estill County-Madison County line. It's grown in success each year, and with good weather I think that will continue this year. Whether you're selling, looking at something to buy, or just trying to enjoy the whole spectacle, I think you'll have a great time with your friends and neighbors throughout Breathitt, Lee, and Estill counties.
If you have any questions about the Fifty Mile Yard Sale, or anything else, please don't hesitate to call my office in Frankfort at 502-564-8100, extension 818.

Week of June 4, 2007
FRANKFORT – It's only a month until our community's Fifty Mile Yard Sale along Highway 52. There's still plenty of time to plan ahead and prepare a roadside stand for the event on Saturday, July 7.
The Fifty Mile Yard Sale will run along Highway 52 from Jackson to the Estill-Madison County line, and we're calling on all groups interested in promoting our area and making a little money to boot. Small businesses, civic groups, churches and other community organization, are all welcome and encouraged to set up for the many visitors coming to our area the weekend after Independence Day. Whether it's simply to make a sale or to promote your organization's endeavors, it's well worth your time and energy to join the crowds along Highway 52.
Highway 52 won't be the only place to go that weekend, though. There will be some areas away from that road that are also worth seeing. Snug Hollow Farm Bed & Breakfast in Estill County has become famous for its country atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and organic homemade cooking. It's even been written up in Southern Living Magazine, so you know it's well worth a visit.
Opal's Grocery in Bear Track will have soup beans and cornbread, not to mention all the stories you could ever want to hear about the history and culture of our area.
I know I keep mentioning them, but it bears repeating: Natural Bridge, Red River Gorge, Daniel Boone National Forest, and the confluence of the three forks of the Kentucky River make our neck of the woods one of the most beautiful in the commonwealth, if not the world. We also have numerous museums and local attractions that visitors should be alerted to.  Folks here already know about the natural beauty of Estill, Lee, and Breathitt counties, but others may not.
There are still a few things to keep in mind as the Fifty Mile Yard Sale approaches. The state Department of Highways reminds everyone to be careful about where you locate your stand, or where you park if you're visiting. People need plenty of space to pull off the road and then pull back into traffic after they're done. We want people to have a good time, but most importantly, we want everyone to have a safe time. To that end, make sure your roadside stand is located well off the highway, preferably in a small parking lot or gravel pull-off area.
I hope everyone is as excited about this upcoming Fifty Mile Yard Sale as I am, and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call Linda Smith at 464-2888. If you have any questions about the Fifty Mile Yard Sale, or about anything else that concerns you, you can always reach my office in Frankfort at 502-564-8100, extension 818.

Week of May 21, 2007
FRANKFORT — Memorial Day is a great time to reconnect with old family members, visit the resting places of our departed friends and family, and reminisce about the way things used to be. At least that's the case until a loved one passes away. Memorial Day has a different effect on people then. The flowers are a little less bright, smell a little less sweet, and the stories usually take on a tinge of sadness despite their humor.
It's always best, I think, especially on days like these, to dwell not on the loss of the people we love, but the great joy they brought to our lives when they were here on Earth. To that end, it's always a good idea to share with people how much they mean to you while they still appreciate the sentiment. Everyone regrets the things they didn't get the chance to tell their loved ones; nobody ever regrets telling them too often how much they are loved.
While we take time on Memorial Day to mourn all our friends and family who have passed on, the national holiday began as a remembrance of our military dead. We as a nation have lost more than 600,000 men and women from all the branches of service, dating back now more than 230 years.
As with everyone else, though, it's always a good idea to tell our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines how much we appreciate their sacrifices now, when they need the morale boost. The simple pleasures of home mean a lot more when you haven't been home for months, or even years. Cookies, letters, anything that can bring a measure of comfort to our troops overseas (or stationed stateside, actually, as they prepare for deployment) are a good idea. There are scores of places online where you can get more information on how to put together a care package or where to send money if you're not familiar with a particular soldier.
Three-day weekends are wonderful when we have time to enjoy them, but we should never forget the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could enjoy the blessings of liberty we have today. Make sure you take the time to thank them for their sacrifices while you can still look them in the eye. Five seconds of your time will mean more than all the flowers in the world.
As always, feel free to contact me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of April 30, 2007
FRANKFORT — One final note on the session we wrapped up in March. While the newspapers and radio and TV stations will focus on the larger issues that generated controversy, we also took a small step toward boosting Kentucky tourism by making bluegrass music the official state music.
I was proud to sponsor House Bill 71, just as I was proud to sponsor legislation last year to make clogging the state's official dance. Will these new laws make an overwhelming difference in most people's lives? Probably not, but they will help our tourism industry market itself and highlight their connections to our state's rich cultural heritage. After all, bluegrass music is named for our state, because it originated here with Bill Monroe. Even today, one of the world's most famous and innovative bluegrass players is Ricky Skaggs, who grew up here in Eastern Kentucky.
In fact, tourism is a $10 billion-a-year business in Kentucky, and the state's second-largest employer. It's our fastest growing industry, with people from not only the local area, but around the world coming to our commonwealth to take in everything from the Kentucky Derby to the beautiful natural scenery here in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Right here in our area, we've got Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Red River Gorge, the confluence of the three forks into the Kentucky River at Beattyville, and so many other hidden gems, all so close together. We have tourists from all over the world, literally, coming to our state next year for golf's Ryder Cup in Louisville. In 2010, the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington will host the FEI World Equestrian Games, the first time they've ever been held outside of Europe. These international visitors won't just be darting in and out of town, either — we want them to stay and enjoy all the other great parts of Kentucky, including our own.
Of course, when local residents are planning vacations, we also want them to keep in mind that there's no need to leave Kentucky to kick back, relax, and enjoy the splendors of nature. You don't even have to take off from work; just spend the weekend here close to home!
To enhance that experience, don't forget the Highway 52 Fifty Mile Yard Sale's third year, running from Jackson to the Estill-Madison County line. It's scheduled for July 7, and I'll bring you more details as they arrive. For more information, don't hesitate to call me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of April 16, 2007
FRANKFORT — I seem to say this every year, but we took some major steps to show our appreciation for our military men and women this year. Especially when we see so many people from here close to home facing the dangers halfway across the globe, it makes it so clear how much we have to thank them for. Some of them, like Army Spc. William Bowling, have given the ultimate sacrifice, and for that we can never thank them enough. Our prayers are with his soul and his family.
One of the tragedies for many veterans is that they don't realize what benefits they have earned for their service. One of the most vivid for many people is the honor of a military honor guard at their funeral or memorial service, and a trip through many cemeteries will reveal headstones or markers for military servicemembers. These are just a few of the many benefits coming to our veterans, including National Guard units that have been called up to active duty by the President.  Under House Bill 280, which we passed this year, the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs will provide every funeral director with a list of these benefits, and every funeral director must provide veterans' families with the information when they are preparing for the service.
One the topic of military funerals, we also reinforced our prohibition of disturbing protests at funerals, a move that we took in reaction to the rash of protests at military funerals in the last couple of years. We believe in free speech, but we also believe in the dignity and respect due to our loved ones when they pass on to the next life.
We shouldn't wait until death to show our respect for these brave heroes, however. We also passed Senate Bill 186, which will allow the Kentucky Housing Corporation to assist the families of active servicemembers in keeping up with their rent and mortgage payments. Many families give up a substantial paycheck when their spouse is called up to active duty, and it's easy to fall behind financially. No one should lose their home because they are serving their country, and we think  this legislation will go a long way toward fixing that problem.
Finally, for the survivors of deceased veterans, we increased the age limit for waiving tuition at state colleges or universities, including our community and vocational schools, for children of deceased of disabled veterans. We've raised the limit to age 24.
If you have any questions about other bills we passed, or didn't pass for that matter, I hope you'll call me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of April 2, 2007
FRANKFORT — The General Assembly has finished its work for the 2007 Regular Session, and while the TV stations may tell you all the things we didn't do, we accomplished quite a bit considering we were only at the Capitol for 30 days.
I'm especially proud of the bills we passed to affect people's everyday lives. One of those laws that will take effect this summer, Senate Bill 34, should save hundreds of lives. This new law will make sure that every cigarette sold in Kentucky will use "fire-safe" paper, which is designed to stop burning after a few minutes is the smoker doesn't inhale. The fire in Bardstown that killed 10 people earlier this year is just the latest example of a fire that started because someone fell asleep with a lit cigarette in their hand. Kentucky has the highest rate of smoking in the nation, so this law will be particularly helpful here.
Senate Bill 83, the speed limit bill, will also help anyone who drives on the interstates or parkways. The new speed limit of 70 miles per hour could be set by the state's Secretary of Transportation this summer on large stretches of highway, including I-75 and the part of the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway west of Campton. The roads won't necessarily carry the higher limit until the Secretary signs off on it, so be careful about how fast you drive until you see the highways signs. And of course, always drive carefully.
Anyone who works in a mine or as a state social worker should see some improvements in their career as well, with safety measures passing that will affect both jobs. Every worker who makes less than $7.25 an hour will also see a difference in their paycheck over the next couple of years, too. I'll give you more details on these new laws, along with others, as we get closer to the end of June, when these new bills become the new law.
Right now, the major media is talking about the governor calling a special session or two to deal with the projects he vetoed last year, as well as the state employee pension plan, which everyone agrees needs to be reformed before our state budget is drastically affected. I'm like many of you on this issue, though — I don't have any inside knowledge on when the governor may call a special session, or what exact subjects we'll have to tackle when he does. When I know, however, you can be sure that I'll keep you informed.
Barring that special session, lawmakers won't converge on Frankfort again until next January 8. Your input is welcome year-round, though. As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of March 12, 2007
FRANKFORT — It's down to the wire in Frankfort. By the time you read this, the General Assembly will have wrapped up most of its work and sent several bills to the governor to sign into law, or to veto. As I write this, we've completed our last full week of meetings, with just Monday's action left before we head home. We'll be back for two days at the end of the month to override any vetoes and to wrap up any unfinished business.
Two major pieces of legislation came out of the House this week. Senate Bill 83, which we approved with some changes from the Senate version, will allow the state Secretary of Transportation to raise the speed limit to 70 miles per hour along most stretches of interstate and parkway in Kentucky. We made exceptions to the heavily traveled portions in Louisville and Northern Kentucky. The higher limit could also apply only to the four-lane, limited-access areas, so the Mountain Parkway is eligible between Winchester and Campton.  The Senate has approved our changes, so it now rests with the governor.
After a great deal of talking and compromising, we also passed House Bill 207, which we think we go beyond even last year's law to help coal miners stay safe. Coal mining is dangerous work no matter what you do, but we hope we can cut down on the risks and help miners escape most of the disasters they could face.
HB 207 requires multi-gas detectors in underground mines, so that methane, carbon monoxide, and other deadly gases can be checked, and we can make sure they don't build up to dangerous levels. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and methane is flammable. High levels could result in an explosion.
The bill also requires adequate transportation out of the mine, including flame-retardant "lifeline cords" that miners could grab onto and use to get out of the mine even if they couldn't see because of smoke or fumes.
To make sure that all the required safety precautions are being taken, HB 207 also doubles the number of underground mine inspections to six every year. This bill is being reviewed by the Senate now, and we hope they will join us in protecting our miners.
As I said, we're done for now, but we'll be back later this month. As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181, to voice your opinion on any bill that's before us. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of March 5, 2007
FRANKFORT — The safety and protection of our state's social workers has been a hotly debated issue this year, and this past week we put our money where our mouth is. 
House Bill 362, called the "Boni Bill" in honor of Boni Frederick, the social worker who was killed in October while supervising a visit between a child and his mother, would allow the state to hire more than 100 new social workers and fund supervised visitation centers.
The bill, if passed by the Senate as well, would also require a one-hour turnaround on background checks, tracking of threatening behavior, creation of a safety liaison position, and the establishment of a task force to look into social worker staffing and safety issues.  The task force's job would include making recommendations for any new technology or equipment needed to ensure the safety of social workers and their staff. 
Social workers are some of the commonwealth's most underappreciated and overworked people, and they toil everyday in a very emotionally draining environment. We owe them everything we can to make sure they're at least safe.
We also took a more direct step to protect our children. HB 230 would prohibit school bus drivers from using a cell phone while driving.  Exceptions would be made for drivers without two-way radios who need to talk to their dispatcher, and in times of emergency.  It takes every ounce of attention to keep a school bus under control, and no one in this country handles a more valuable cargo. This is a simple, common-sense measure to make sure our children are protected every day while on their way to and from school.
Finally, HB 109, which we passed this week, would require children to be screened for all types of autism at 18 months and 3 years, then again when they enroll in school and take their sixth-grade physical.  Should a child screen positive for autism, a formal diagnosis would be required within three months, and a state program created by the bill would be established to connect those children with the services they need.
We're now down to our final full week in Frankfort. Monday, March 12 is scheduled to be our last day before we recess to allow the governor to sign or veto the bills we've passed. As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181, to voice your opinion on any bill that's before us. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of February 26, 2007
FRANKFORT — If I had to sum up last week's House action in one word, it would be respect — respect for the hard work our lowest-paid employees put in each and every day, respect for the burden our state's teachers carry, and respect for the underappreciated danger to our state's social workers.
House Bill 305, which the full House passed this week, would raise the state minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 an hour over the next two years — the first minimum wage increase in the Commonwealth in a decade. The change is the same as the one Congress is considering, but we can't wait for Congress to act. There are already 29 states with a higher minimum wage than the federal scale, including three of our seven surrounding states. If Congress doesn't act, we can't afford to let our poorest workers fall even further behind.
We were so proud when the General Assembly approved legislation last year to raise teacher pay and bring it to a competitive rate. Across the board, teachers are being paid closer top what they're worth, and what they could earn in another field. Unfortunately, some local school boards are having trouble meeting that higher payroll. To help them solve that problem, the House approved up to $50 million to help local districts cover the raises our teachers need and deserved.
One bill that made it through committee last week, and which is now waiting to be voted on by the full House, will go a long way toward keeping our social workers safe. House Bill 362, as it currently stands, would mark $2.5 million in new funding for additional technology, office space and visitation centers where social workers and their clients can meet safely. It would also allow the Cabinet for Cabinet for Health and Family Services to use spend another $2.5 million for salary increases and extra training for front-line staff.
The "Boni Bill," named for social worker Boni Frederick, who was killed during a supposedly routine visit to a client's home last October, would also create a blue-ribbon state task force to study the more overarching needs of our social services program, to make sure that in 2008 we can take further action.
As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181, to voice your opinion on any bill that's before us. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of February 19, 2007
FRANKFORT -- Last year, the legislature passed the Kentucky Energy Security National Leadership Act in an effort to wean this country off foreign oil and make Kentucky's coal-based economy a player in the nation's security. We're trying to add to that effort this year, though House Bill 5, which passed almost unanimously in the House this past week.
HB 5 would require state officials to develop strategies for production of alternative fuels from coal, biomass, and renewable energy. Plans for energy conservation in all state offices — and state vehicles — would also be key.  Of course, businesses would have to be on board, so the state's coal incentive tax credit would be extended to other forms of energy. By making it cheaper for companies to buy the equipment they need to invest in alternative energy and renewable energy, we could return Kentucky to its rightful place as the nation's top energy source.
Expanding our commonwealth's use of coal liquefaction and other new technologies won't just help us make America safer. It will also provide us top jobs in the future. If we want to take advantage of those opportunities, though, we must make sure our young people have the knowledge and skills they need to compete for those careers. This week, we will receive two bills from the Senate to advance math and science education in Kentucky, and I look forward to the debate on them.
Another way the state can attract and retain highly-skilled workers is by recruiting veterans, many of whom have learned skills on the job that we need with state government. This past week, the House passed House Bill 63, which would credit most veterans with an extra five points on the state hiring exam. Disabled veterans and some family members would receive 10 bonus points. Furthermore, all veterans who are job finalists would get an interview, giving them the chance to really make their case. If more than five veterans are all finalists for any position — and we'd be fortunate if that were the case — then the top five would all be interviewed.
We have so many veterans who don't yet have the formal education some state jobs require, but they do have the knowledge and the leadership skills to get the job done, and done well. We hope this measure helps us get more veterans into the state hiring field. We'd all be better off for it.
As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181, to voice your opinion on any bill that's before us. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of February 12, 2007
FRANKFORT -- Gov. Fletcher gave his State of the Commonwealth address to the legislature last week, and many of his proposals included spending priorities, from education to Medicaid to land conservation efforts. Many of these ideas are popular with legislators, and I expect many of them will be heavily discussed when the budget is written next year. There's not much talk among our leaders, however, for opening up the budget during this short session, especially since this is the first short session since 2001 we're not required to write one. It's a big can of worms to open up. 
Probably the only big-ticket budget-related items that will be up for discussion this year will be the projects we approved last year before the governor's vetoes. There is bipartisan agreement that we have the resources to fund these construction projects, which are mostly funded coal severance projects, with the rest involving our colleges and universities' classroom, research, and student housing needs.  The governor, in his speech, noted that our bond rating has improved, so we feel confident that these sorely needed projects will be funded.
It's still fairly early in the session, so we're working on many different bills, but a few will dominate the headlines. I want to give you a heads up on some of them. With the Global War on Terror ongoing, we're constantly reminded of the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform. One way to show our respect for them is to lower their financial burden. Military pay is too low as it is, so we will consider this year a bill to exempt all military pay from the state income tax. Not only will this put more money in the pockets of our military families, but it may actually boost tax revenues!  There are so many Fort Campbell soldiers who live in Tennessee because there is no state income tax at all, so this could attract them to live (and spend their money) here instead.
Already, though, the House has passed some bills and sent them on to the Senate. One of them would start a pilot program to give people devices that constantly measure their energy usage. They'd be able to immediately see how leaving that extra light on causes their electric bill to go up, and would help us all remember to save energy.  It's a small pilot program, only 300 users, but we'll be able to see if it really works to cut down people's electric bills. If it does, we might be able to expand it.
As always, I hope you'll stay in contact with me if you have any questions or concerns by calling me at 502-564-8100, extension 818.  If you'd just like to leave me a message, call our message line in Frankfort at 800-372-7181, to voice your opinion on any bill that's before us. To get more information on any bill, go to our web site at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Week of February 5, 2007
FRANKFORT -- Lawmakers returned to Frankfort this week for the rest of our 30-day "short session." We spent four days in January organizing the session, and we'll be in Frankfort for the next 24 workdays to deal with the issues confronting our commonwealth. We'll return for our last two days in late March to look at any vetoes the governor may issue and wrap up our business for the year.
This year will be unusual for me, because it's the first session since I arrived at the Capitol that we already have a budget in place and won't be faced with the task of designing a spending plan.  That's great news, especially in this short session, because we'll h