Bluegrass Times

The recent legislative session in Kentucky wrapped up with several initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses through regulatory changes, workforce development, and tax reform.

Senate Bill 23, led by Senator Steve West, introduces stricter legislative oversight over state agencies proposing new administrative regulations. Agencies are required to present their proposals before a legislative committee for scrutiny. Failure to comply could lead to the regulations being declared deficient and subsequently nullified. "This is about accountability and transparency," commented NFIB State Director Tom Underwood. "Small businesses shouldn’t have to navigate burdensome rules that were created behind closed doors."

House Bill 398, proposed by Representative Walker Thomas, ensures Kentucky's workplace safety standards are aligned with federal OSHA rules. The bill prevents Kentucky OSHA from enforcing regulations that exceed federal requirements. Underwood added, "Employers shouldn’t be penalized just because they do business in more than one state. This helps create a level playing field."

Personal income tax reduction continues with House Bill 1, introduced by Representative Jason Petrie. From January 1, Kentucky’s income tax rate will decrease from 4% to 3.5%, part of a broader aim to eventually eliminate the tax.

In response to labor shortages, especially in skill-specific sectors like trades and transportation, lawmakers approved two additional bills aimed at easing entries into these fields. House Bill 54, by Representative Kim Banta, allows high school trade course credits to count toward full licensure in trades. House Bill 444, introduced by Representative John Blanton, allows residents 18 and older to obtain a commercial driver’s license with a hazardous materials endorsement for intrastate transport.

“On behalf of our members, I want to thank the General Assembly for recognizing the challenges faced by Kentucky’s job creators and passing legislation that helps small businesses grow and address workforce challenges,” Underwood stated.