Legal update: 24-07-24

FRANKFORT— As we navigate the middle of the 2024 interim, our legislative focus has been both intense and multifaceted, addressing numerous policies across multiple sectors. I am pleased to provide a detailed update on recent discussions and developments from the June meetings of the Interim Joint Committee on Agriculture and the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council.

During the recent Interim Joint Committee on Agriculture meeting, we delved into the strategic vision for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) and reviewed key budget approvals. Commissioner Shell and Department of Agriculture officials provided insight into policy initiatives and staff contributions, demonstrating our commitment to supporting agricultural projects. For the first half of 2024, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board (KADB) approved $24.6 million, while the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC) approved $20.5 million for various programs.

The Office of Administrative Services detailed the extensive support provided to the KDA’s 222 full-time employees and 11 interns, focusing on critical areas such as human resources, recruiting, payroll, benefits, training and legal compliance. The Information Technology division also ensures the smooth operation of more than 100 IT systems, managing hardware and software, infrastructure, networking and security.

A key topic of discussion was the allocation of funds through House Bill 6 (HB 6). These funds are critical to several programs, including Farms to Food Banks; County Fair Grants; the Kentucky Rural Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, and Farm Safety Program; the Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response; and the Division of Regulatory Field Services. These allocations underscore our commitment to supporting and expanding agricultural and rural initiatives across the state.

Marketing and outreach initiatives were also a focus, with a focus on the thriving Kentucky Proud brand. This program, which has participated in major events such as the Kroger Food Show with over 60 vendors, continues to expand and now includes 178 farmers markets in 114 counties. Exciting new events at the Kentucky State Fair, such as the Ag Land Obstacle Course, Sunshine Class and Commissioner’s Pumpkin, were announced, promising to increase participation and showcase our agricultural excellence.

Launched in January and funded by the USDA, the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) addresses critical infrastructure needs in the middle of the supply chain. The program received an overwhelming response, with 96 applications for equipment grants totaling $7.3 million and 42 applications for infrastructure grants totaling $32.4 million, underscoring the critical need for funding to meet essential infrastructure requirements in Kentucky.

Consumer and environmental protection initiatives were also highlighted. The Local Food for Schools program, with a grant of $3.2 million and $2.1 million spent to date, benefits 120 farmers. Similarly, the Local Food Purchase Assistance program, with a grant of $11 million and $4.5 million spent, supports 128 producers, 80% of whom are socially disadvantaged. These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to supporting local farmers and ensuring the availability of fresh, local produce in our schools and communities.

Our state veterinarian outlined key initiatives to protect the health and welfare of Kentucky’s livestock, including regulating disease surveillance, education, and emergency management. A comprehensive emergency management program is underway to enhance response plans for high-impact foreign livestock diseases.

In closing, Commissioner Shell and Department of Agriculture officials provided an update on legal and advocacy efforts. They voiced their opposition to proposed EPA actions that could negatively impact meat processing and agricultural regulations and are actively working with federal agencies to support sustainable aviation fuels and economic development initiatives.

In another key meeting, the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council met to receive a report from the Administrative Office of the Courts. The council discussed implementing legislation from the 2023 and 2024 regular sessions, including House Bill 611 and Senate Bill 11, which introduced changes to the length of diversion, standard truancy processes, and school reporting procedures.

Important updates were provided on several legislative measures, including House Bills 3 (2023), 278, and 5, which revised the procedures and forms for detention decisions for clarity and data tracking. Senate Bill 20 also introduced procedures and forms to enable the tracking of youth offender records. The FAIR Team reported on member outcomes and attendance, noting that of the 1,513 complaints handled in 2024, 52% were resolved out of court, while 48% were referred to court. Attendance rates were generally equal to or higher than 2023 rates, with a notable 10% increase in attendance by the Department for Community-Based Services (DCBS).

Statewide trends in detentions showed a significant decrease from 4,583 in 2006 to 1,555 in 2023, with 782 charges being held during the July intake. While detentions decreased by 1% statewide, Jefferson County saw a notable decrease of 45%, compared to a 21% increase across the state. The percentage of violent crimes among charges for detentions also decreased in 2024.

The Administrative Office of the Courts will continue to update the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council on ongoing efforts to improve Kentucky’s juvenile justice system. Definitions such as successful diversion, failed diversion, adjudication, and disposition have been clarified to ensure transparency and understanding.

As we move toward the 2025 session, these meetings will become more frequent and in-depth. I am proud to be part of these efforts and to represent the interests of our community and the Commonwealth. Your continued involvement is vital as we continue to hear updates in the meantime.

If I can be of assistance, please email me at [email protected] or call the General Assembly Message Line at 1-800-372-7181. Kentuckians with hearing loss can use Kentucky Relay by dialing 711.