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Kentucky Senate sets guidelines for a legislative-called session

Kentucky Senate 1-27-22
Stu Johnson
Kentucky Senate 1-27-22

The Kentucky Senate has approved legislation setting guidelines for a new kind of special session, one called by the general assembly. Right now, only the governor can call a special session. The question of whether the legislature should have that ability will go before voters this November.

Proponents say the governor has over-reached in his authority during the pandemic. Clark County Senator Ralph Alvarado said the governor is not responsive. “He ran on the idea of this state having a new tone. And I remind people there is a dial tone at the governor’s office. When we call and contact, we get no response,” said Alvarado.

The change in the constitution would allow lawmakers to meet up to 12 additional days. Carter County Senator Robin Webb said the move from biennial to yearly sessions more than two decades ago seemed to offer an opportunity to be responsive and make fixes.

“Look what they’ve morphed into. There are more bills filed. There are bad bills passed. Our work product has gone down and I can’t help but be fearful if we keep coming back. We pass too many bills now,” said Webb.

The General Assembly went from meeting once every other year to annually after Kentuckians voted 52 to 47% in favor of yearly sessions in 2000. The bill now heads to the House for its consideration.

Stu has been reporting for WEKU for more than 35 years. His primary beat is Lexington/Fayette government.
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