FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky lawmakers passed a flurry of bills ahead of the "veto break," meaning they can override any vetoes from Gov. Andy Beshear on legislation passed before the end of the day.
The General Assembly passed Senate Bill 150, a bill that includes a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Thursday evening. It says the Board of Education cannot require or recommend policies or procedures for the use of pronouns that do not match a student's birth certificate — regardless of their preference.
It also outlaws surgical or non-surgical gender transition care. Health care providers would not be able to prescribe or administer any drug that delays or stops normal puberty, testosterone, estrogen or more to a minor. They also cannot perform any sterilizing surgery like a vasectomy, hysterectomy or more "for the purposes of attempting to alter the appearance of, or to validate the minor's perception of, the minor's sex." Here's more on the bill.
Senators passedSenate Bill 47, a first in Kentucky. The bill would legalize medical marijuana in the commonwealth. In previous years, the House would pass a medical marijuana bill that would later die in the Senate. This year, though, the bill gained support from a previously vocal opponent, Majority Leader Damon Thayer.
No smoking is allowed in the bill, and it would give the state nearly two years to develop a medical marijuana program. It still needs to pass in the House, which would come after the veto break.
Kentucky lawmakers passed a bill aimed at criminalizing hazing on Thursday, the final day before lawmakers began an extended break to give the governor time to consider signing or vetoing the bills sent to him.
After making a few changes, the House passed Senate Bill 9 on a 96-3 vote to make hazing a crime, responding to calls for action following a university student's death. The measure is now on its way to Gov. Andy Beshear for his signature. Click here to learn more about SB 9.
One big piece of legislation headed to Beshear's desk would make Kentucky a "second amendment sanctuary state." House Bill 153 would essentially nullify the enforcement of any federal firearm ban. Similar measures have been found unconstitutional in other states. Beshear has not said if he will sign it or veto it.
The House passed Senate Bill 5 Wednesday night. The bill will now head to Beshear's desk. SB 5 creates a new process for parents to challenge books and instructional material at schools. Some say the measure will protect children while others have labeled it as a "book-banning" bill. During Wednesday night's session, bill sponsor Rep. Josh Calloway attempted to add a drag show in public places ban to the bill. Representatives voted against this amendment.
Another bill worth watching is House Bill 551, which would legalize sports betting in Kentucky. It still needs to receive procedural readings in the Senate so a vote won't happen until after the veto break.
Our partners at WLEX helped contribute to the reporting in this article.
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