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

Week three of the 2026 Regular Session

Although we are still in the early weeks of the 2026 Regular Session, the Kentucky General Assembly is already fully engaged in work that directly affects our communities, our workforce, and Kentucky’s long-term economic strength. Committees are meeting regularly, legislation is moving through the process, and early discussions are helping set the direction for the weeks ahead.

As week three concluded, the Senate is still awaiting the budget and road plan proposals from the House of Representatives. Once those are received, the Senate will begin reviewing Kentucky’s next two-year spending plan. In the meantime, much of the session’s foundational work continues as lawmakers ask tough questions, refine proposals, and work to ensure legislation is practical, responsible, and reflective of the needs of Kentuckians across the commonwealth.

Two Senate priority measures were filed this week as part of our broader effort to strengthen transparency, accountability, and long-term stability in Kentucky’s education system. Senate Bill (SB) 1 focuses on modernizing governance in Kentucky’s largest and most complex school districts by clarifying roles, strengthening oversight, and aligning authority with accountability. The goal is to support long-term planning and operational stability without imposing a one-size-fits-all solution or a state takeover approach.

Another priority bill, SB 3, is aimed at improving accountability in local school district budgeting. The bill would establish clearer timelines, strengthen public review, and ensure school boards and taxpayers have better insight into how education dollars are being spent.

These bills are still early in the legislative process, and additional priority legislation will continue to move forward as the session progresses.

This week also marked the first meeting of the Senate Economic Development and Workforce Investment Committee for the 2026 session. As chairman, my priority is to make sure the committee asks the right questions, evaluates programs honestly, and keeps the focus on sustainable, long-term growth rather than short-term wins.

Floor activity in the Senate increased this week, with several measures passing the chamber and moving to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Among them were:

SCR 9, which directs the state to commission an independent study examining whether a community-based Medicaid pilot program could improve health outcomes, access to care, and cost efficiency.

SB 10, proposing a constitutional amendment to prohibit governors from issuing pardons or commutations during the period leading up to a gubernatorial election and through the inauguration of the next governor.

SB 13, known as the Military Installation Protection Act, which improves communication between military installations and local governments on land-use decisions that could impact national security.

SB 22, which strengthens Kentucky’s teacher pipeline by allowing students in approved teacher apprenticeship programs to access additional no-cost dual credit courses.

SB 28, establishing the “Phone Down Kentucky Act” to reduce distracted driving and improve roadway safety.

SB 29, preventing duplicative local fees on out-of-district solid waste facilities and promoting more efficient waste management.

SB 38, ensuring pharmacists are fairly reimbursed under Medicaid and KCHIP for services within their scope of practice.

SB 46, providing school districts added flexibility in student transportation options while maintaining safety standards.

SB 49, creating a statewide battery stewardship program to improve safe disposal and prevent fires at no cost to consumers.

SB 51, proposing a constitutional amendment to provide additional property tax relief for homeowners age 65 and older.

SB 90, extending Kentucky’s Behavioral Health Conditional Dismissal Program through 2031 to support recovery-focused alternatives to prosecution while maintaining accountability and public safety.

Despite ongoing construction at the Capitol, it was encouraging to see a strong turnout of visitors this week. Hearing directly from constituents, students, community leaders, and advocates, whether in formal meetings or brief hallway conversations, helps ensure the work remains grounded in real-world experiences.

As colder temperatures and winter weather are expected in the days ahead, I encourage everyone to stay alert, take necessary precautions, and check on neighbors who may need extra assistance.

There’s a lot of work still to come this session, but the early momentum is encouraging. By staying focused on responsible growth, workforce readiness, and accountability, we can continue building an economy that works for every corner of Kentucky.

I look forward to continuing this work on behalf of our district and keeping you informed as the session moves forward. 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.

Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, represents Kentucky’s 31st Senate District, including Elliott, Johnson, Lawrence, Martin, and Pike Counties. Wheeler serves as chair of the Senate Economic Development, Tourism, and Labor Committee and vice chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. He is also co-chair of the Capital Planning Advisory Board. Additionally, Wheeler is a member of the Senate Committees on Transportation, Natural Resources and Energy, and Licensing and Occupations.