FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky lawmakers are moving forward with proposals that could reshape public education, infrastructure spending, and water policy as the General Assembly considers major bills and the governor’s proposed budget.
Education remains a top priority for Senate Republicans, who have filed two bills that would tie administrator raises to teacher pay and establish a five-year training track for principals. The measures have not yet been heard in committee. Supporters say the bills aim to restore trust and accountability, particularly in districts facing financial strain.
“When compensation decisions favor administrative growth over classroom instruction, it can undermine morale, trust, and long-term workforce stability,” State Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, said.
Another bill would shift daily control of Jefferson County Public Schools from the elected school board to the superintendent. The measure cleared the Senate Education Committee this week. Backers cite a budget deficit, a 2023 transportation crisis, and underperforming student outcomes as reasons for the change. Lawmakers say the revised proposal is designed to survive legal challenges after a similar law was struck down by the state Supreme Court.
“It seems that you want to give me more authority, but I’m here to tell you I shouldn’t have it,” JCPS Superintendent Brian Yearwood said. “Doesn’t that financial crisis justify extraordinary action such as something like Senate Bill 1?” Sen. Gerald Neal, D-Louisville, asked.
On public health, a bill making community water fluoridation optional passed a House committee and moves to the full chamber. Critics warn it could increase Medicaid costs and reduce dental access, especially in eastern Kentucky. Supporters argue it gives local control and removes an unfunded state mandate.
“This bill does not ban fluoride. It takes away the state unfunded mandate and gives local control,” said Mary Ann Burch, a retired dental hygienist. “It will impact poorer communities, especially historically vulnerable populations in eastern Kentucky. Many are on Medicaid; an increase in dental decay will increase Medicaid costs.”
Infrastructure is also in focus as lawmakers review a six-year, $9.5 billion transportation plan that includes widening the Mountain Parkway and building a new I-69 bridge. With more than 1,300 proposed projects, some Republicans say the plan is over-programmed and financially unrealistic.
“There’s a lot of activity underway, with more to come as we continue to invest in transportation,” Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray, D-Ky., said. “This plan does three things: it takes care of what we already have, pushes forward on decades-long priority projects, and honors previous commitments and investments.”
Debate is growing over the governor’s proposed budget, which includes $1.4 billion in new education funding along with investments in pre-K, health care, and food assistance. Republican leaders say they will work with the administration on a final version, but major hurdles remain, particularly over funding outside the state’s SEEK formula.
Lawmakers have until April 15 to finalize any bills and the two-year state budget.
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