Beech Tree News Network

Legislation Dealing with Intentional Killing of Police Officers Highlights This Week’s Session-We are nearing the halfway point of the 2014 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly, and while we continue work and debate on a budget for the next two years, numerous bills have been filed and are making their way through the legislative process.

One bill filed this week is in honor of a fallen Kentucky police officer.  Rep. David Floyd of Bardstown filed House Bill 368, which is being called the Officer Jason Ellis Memorial Act.  Officer Ellis, who served as a member on the Bardstown Police Department, was killed in the line of duty in May 2013 and his murder remains unsolved.

Rep. Floyd’s legislation would make the minimum penalty for the intentional murder of a state, county, or city police officer life in prison without the possibility of parole.  Every day the men and women of our police agencies put their lives in danger to protect and serve our Commonwealth and our communities and we must hold those who would purposely kill one of them to the highest degree of justice possible.

Also passing out of committee this week was legislation that will allow law enforcement to check a driver’s proof of insurance electronically.  House Bill 218, sponsored by Rep. Ken Upchurch, seeks to discontinue the need for Kentucky motorists to carry a paper proof of insurance card and instead utilizes updated technology to confirm their insurance by computer.  Numerous law enforcement agencies have computers or related devices in their patrol cars and Rep. Upchurch’s bill simply seeks to allow officers to use that equipment to confirm a driver has up-to-date auto insurance.

As for the fate of legislation dealing with tax reform and expanded gambling, it appears the chances of them being considered are growing slimmer.  The House Committee on Appropriations and Revenue did hold a hearing on the Governor’s tax reform plan, but many questions remain about portions of his proposal.  There are real concerns from some legislators about the Governor’s approach.

I welcome your comments and concerns on any issues impacting our Commonwealth during the 2014 Regular Session.  I can be reached through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181, or you can contact me via e-mail at [email protected]. You can keep track of committee meetings and potential legislation through the Kentucky Legislature Home Page at www.lrc.ky.gov, and I also encourage you to follow the House Republican Caucus on Facebook and Twitter.