SEN. PHILLIP WHEELER’S LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: Week two of the 2026 Regular Session

Commonwealth of Kentucky

Senator Phillip Wheeler 

As the General Assembly moves deeper into the 2026 Regular Session, the pace at the Capitol continues to accelerate. Committees are fully underway, legislation is advancing, and lawmakers are focused on addressing public safety, accountability, and the responsibilities of state government.

Much of the work this week has taken place in committee rooms, where bills receive their first thorough review. These discussions are critical to ensuring legislation is thoughtful, effective, and responsive to the concerns Kentuckians raise at home.

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One bill I filed this session is Senate Bill (SB) 86, which addresses cooperation between Kentucky law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. This legislation is about clarity and consistency. SB 86 ensures that state and local agencies are not prevented from communicating or cooperating with federal officials when it comes to enforcing immigration law. At a time when we have seen confusion and pushback in other states and major cities, this bill sends a clear message that Kentucky supports lawful enforcement and public safety across all levels of government.In the Judiciary Committee, members considered legislation focused on accountability and public safety. One bill discussed was SB 90, which updates and extends Kentucky’s Behavioral Health Conditional Dismissal Program. This court-supervised option focuses on treatment and recovery for eligible individuals while strengthening oversight and improving data collection to better measure outcomes and protect public safety.

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The Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee reviewed legislation aimed at disaster preparedness and coordination. SB 11 would establish a residential safe room rebate fund to help homeowners offset the cost of installing FEMA-compliant safe rooms that can be opened to the community during severe weather events. As Kentucky continues to face more frequent and severe storms, measures like this are focused on saving lives and strengthening local preparedness.

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In the Transportation Committee, members discussed legislation to modernize state systems and improve roadway safety. SB 30 updates statutes governing the Motor Vehicle Commission, strengthening transparency and accountability. The committee also reviewed SB 28, known as the “Phone Down Kentucky Act,” which aims to reduce distracted driving by limiting hand-held cell phone use behind the wheel, with reasonable exceptions for emergencies and navigation.

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Notably, a bill I am co-sponsoring, SB 7, became the first bill passed by the Senate this session. The legislation aims to improve access to driver’s license renewal services by allowing eligible county offices to once again offer renewals in areas without a regional licensing center. SB 7 now moves to the Kentucky House of Representatives for further consideration.

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Meanwhile, the House continues its work on the biennial state budget. In the Senate, we are closely monitoring those discussions as we prepare for our role in reviewing and shaping the final budget in the weeks ahead. I will continue to keep you updated as budget details move through the legislative process.

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As always, my goal is to focus on practical, commonsense solutions that improve government efficiency and deliver real results for our communities.

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It is an honor to serve you in Frankfort. If you have questions or ideas, feel free to contact my office at 502-564-8100 or email me at Phillip.Wheeler@kylegislature.gov. You can learn more about bills, committees, and other updates from the Kentucky General Assembly at www.legislature.ky.gov.