Liam Niemeyer

Liam Niemeyer covers government and policy in Kentucky and its impacts throughout the Commonwealth for the Kentucky Lantern. He most recently spent four years reporting award-winning stories for WKMS Public Radio in Murray.

In a week of head spinning alterations to legislation, surprises continued Thursday, the 27th day of the 30-day session.
By Liam Niemeyer
Jason Nemes
The late-breaking change in the bill would subvert a Supreme Court ruling in the Shively police case.
By Liam Niemeyer
Rep. Chris Fugate
As the superminority calls for more transparency, the House Republican leader warns the "clock is ticking."
By Liam Niemeyer
Rep. Lindsey Burke
Kentucky poet laureate Silas House rejected proponents' argument that the bill would allow industry to pollute only ephemeral streams, or waterways that don’t have running water year round. 
By Liam Niemeyer
Silas House speaking at podium near lake
Federal disaster assistance is available in all 120 Kentucky counties.
By Liam Niemeyer
kentucky flooding
The minority of Democrats in the GOP-controlled chamber who opposed Senate Bill 89 echoed strong concerns from environmental groups that the legislation could open the door to more pollution of groundwater, wetlands and small headwater streams across the state. 
By Liam Niemeyer
Sen. Madon
Rep. Maddox says her proposed fiscal note requirement is still needed
By Liam Niemeyer
kentucky capitol
The bill is sponsored by House Appropriations and Revenue Committee chair Jason Petrie, R-Elkton.
By Liam Niemeyer
state logo Kentucky Senate chamber
As power demand rises, the utility board needs information from independent experts, according to a renewable energy group.
By Liam Niemeyer
Cumberland Fossil Plant
Sen. Chris McDaniel said the Republican-controlled legislature should stick to the “very disciplined” process it has adopted for gradually reducing and ultimately eliminating Kentucky’s individual income tax. 
By Liam Niemeyer
McDaniel Wilson general assembly
Republicans rejected the Democratic proposal for a graduated income tax rate.
By Liam Niemeyer
The Kentucky House of Representatives, Jan. 9. 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Liam Niemeyer)