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

The first week of the 2026 Legislative Session is officially behind us, marking the start of Kentucky’s constitutionally required 60-day budget session. While the opening days are largely procedural, they serve an important purpose: setting priorities, organizing committees, and laying the groundwork for the serious policy and budget decisions that lie ahead.

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As lawmakers, this early stage gives us time to focus on what matters most to Kentuckians: responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, a strong and growing economy, safe communities, and policies that support families and local communities across the commonwealth. A budget session demands careful attention and discipline, and I take that responsibility seriously.

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In addition to advocating for projects within the 31^st Senate District, I am currently working on several pieces of legislation to tackle some of the challenges facing eastern Kentucky including economic development, utility rates, and worker fairness.

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Kentucky has made meaningful progress over the past several years by adhering to conservative, fiscally responsible principles. One clear example is tax relief. Thanks to thoughtful income tax reductions, Kentuckians are keeping more of their hard-earned money. The individual income tax rate has been lowered from 6 percent to 3.5 percent, with the most recent reduction taking effect on January 1. Each step in that process represents real relief for working families and small businesses.

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As the session moves forward, the Senate will continue working through legislation related to issues that directly impact daily life in our communities: affordability, public safety, education, workforce development, and infrastructure—During a budget year especially, we must weigh needs carefully, plan responsibly, and ensure state resources are used wisely.

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I value the input and perspective of constituents, and I appreciate the conversations I’ve had with many of you back home about what you want to see from state government. Those voices help guide my work in Frankfort and keep our focus where it belongs.

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I look forward to sharing updates as the session continues and appreciate the trust placed in me to represent our district. As always, it is an honor to serve.

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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.kylegislature.gov.

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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.