KentuckyHB 6472026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT relating to economic relief for local communities of the Commonwealth and declaring an emergency.

Sponsored By: Shawn McPherson (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Area Development DistrictsCitiesCountiesEconomic DevelopmentEffective Dates, EmergencyLocal GovernmentPropertyPublic Buildings And GroundsPublic HealthPublic UtilitiesSewer SystemsState AgenciesSunset LegislationTelecommunicationsTransportationWater SupplyWaterways And DamsWorkforce

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

Counties can pool funds for regional projects

For regional projects, the Cabinet can combine each participating county’s state allocation into one award. Each county still provides its own required local match based on its rank. Counties may also pool their local matching dollars for the shared project.

More local groups can seek state match

County and city governments, public‑service entities, water and wastewater utilities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply for state matching funds. Projects must tie to a qualifying federal grant and clearly benefit the public. They can be on public land, land under a binding letter of intent or sale agreement, or private land that serves a public purpose.

Monthly public reports; program runs through 2028

Starting June 1, 2024, the Cabinet posts a monthly report listing all eligible applications, who was not selected, scores, amounts, and decisions. By November 1 each year from 2024 through 2028, the Cabinet files an annual report with fund balances and recommendations. The program remains in law through December 31, 2028.

Local match costs set by county rank

Beginning July 1, 2026, each county must pay a local match equal to a set percent of the state match. The percent depends on county rank: rank ≥193 = 2%, 145–192 = 4%, 97–144 = 6%, 49–96 = 8%, and <49 = 10%. The Cabinet sets county ranks by adding population density rank and 10‑year population‑change rank by May 1, 2024 and updates them every two years. By November 1, 2024 and every two years, the Cabinet reports each county’s ranks to the legislature.

Faster reviews and deadlines for GRANT awards

You must file the state‑match application within 90 days after you submit the related federal grant. The Cabinet reviews applications each month, gives a first review within 14 days after the month starts, and a final decision by month’s end. Funds for approved projects cannot stay obligated more than 12 months, with one 12‑month extension allowed. The Cabinet creates standard and regional applications and a scoring system, verifies federal eligibility, scores and ranks projects, gives feedback, and can hire staff or contractors to run the program.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Shawn McPherson
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Jason Petrie
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 135 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/31/2026

3rd reading, passed

Yes: 38 • No: 0

House vote • 3/12/2026