This year’s short legislative session was no easy ride. With limited time and political tensions running high, only a handful of Lane13’s tracked bills made it across the finish line. But that didn’t stop us—we were there all day on the final day, working shoulder to shoulder with legislators to push for the passage of HB 580 and HB 87 (background check), two of our top priorities. Though those bills ultimately didn’t make it through, the momentum we built was undeniable—and we’re far from done.
One of the session’s big-ticket items was House Bill 695, a priority bill for the majority party, which establishes the Medicaid Oversight Advisory Board (MOAB). While Lane13 did not prioritize this bill, we remained engaged throughout the process.. HB 695 includes controversial elements like work requirements for able-bodied adults and prior authorization for behavioral health services. An early attempt to reduce psychoeducation units from 500 to 400 was ultimately removed—keeping that the same for now.
A key focus for Lane13 this session was HB 291, the Family Preservation and Accountability Act. This important bill made it all the way through the House but died in the Senate. Focused on improving outcomes for families and reducing system involvement, it’s a bill we strongly support and plan to bring back with renewed energy next session.
Unfortunately, HB 580 (peer support), HB 87 (background check), and HB 423 (prior authorization reform in private treatment) also stalled in the final hours. Despite passing unanimously in the house and in the Senate Licensing & Occupations committee, they were caught in a political standoff between chambers during the session’s final day. We were there, advocating to the last minute—and we are proud of the overwhelming support from some specific senators that were advocating with us until the end of the last day!.
Clean Slate, which aims to automate expungement and expand second chances, evolved into a task force. Instead of advancing a bill this session the goal is to get stakeholders to work through the interim to shape a viable path forward for implementation. The Voting Rights Task Force, another critical piece of the equity puzzle, is in a similar position. These task forces are now among 16 being considered, with majority caucus chairs in both chambers set to determine which 6 or 7 will move forward.
More to come on that—rest assured, Lane13 will be there, involved in the process every step of the way.
As always, our mission is clear: raise the quality of care, reduce incarceration, and expand opportunity across Kentucky. With the formation of MOAB and the groundwork laid for transformative policies, we’re more determined than ever.
We’ll be back this year—stronger, more focused, and ready to keep fighting for change.