Government

The bill easily passed, 11-4, the House Health Services Committee on Thursday mostly along party lines after six Kentucky health care professionals testified against it. 

In last year’s budget, the Republican-controlled General Assembly set various caps on spending by state agencies when responding to a disaster, before asking the legislature for a new appropriation.

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. 

Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher said the education department would continue to discuss possible future funding with lawmakers.

Rep. Maddox says her proposed fiscal note requirement is still needed

Lowering the tax rate has been a priority in recent years for Republican lawmakers.