There’s no doubt that Kentucky lawmakers have been busy. With Republicans having control over both legislative changes, a variety of new bills have been passed. Now that we are halfway through the year, many of these new laws will take effect in the coming months. If you’re concerned about these changes affecting your personal injury case, contact Daryl T. Dixon Law today.
Bicycle Safety
In March, House Bill 33 was passed in an attempt to increase roadway safety for bicyclists and motor vehicles after 15 people were killed in cycling accidents over a 24 month period. Drivers must keep at least three feet away from a bicyclist when passing. If that much space is not available, they must use their judgment and proceed cautiously when passing.
Organ Donation Notification
House Bill 84 requires medical examiners and coroners to release identifying information about a deceased person to the Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates if that person is a known organ donor and the body is deemed suitable. Previously, the wishes of many organ donors’ were not followed through on because the procurement organization was not notified of the passing of an organ donor.
Private Pharmaceutical Reimbursement
According to Senate Bill 5, independent pharmacists will now be fairly reimbursed for filling Medicaid recipients’ prescriptions. This bill will help keep track of the $1.7 billion that is spent annually on Medicaid prescriptions, to determine if locally-owned pharmacies are being compensated.
Police Body Footage Restrictions
House Bill 373 prevents some police footage from being released to the public. Types of footage to be withheld include showing medical facilities, privately-owned homes, women’s shelters or jails, nude or dead bodies, minors, or evidence of sexual assault.
Prescription Medication Disposal Information
Pharmacists are now required to provide safety information on the disposal of certain prescription medications like opiates and amphetamines, per Senate Bill 6. This is to discourage the improper disposal of medications that are contributing to the nationwide opioid crisis.
Road Improvements
In order to improve road safety for Kentucky residents and travelers and decrease accident rates, House Bill 202 is authorizing over $2.4 billion. This money will be used to repair and improve bridges, repave worn roadways, and address other highway needs throughout Kentucky. This money is to be distributed and utilized over the course of the next two fiscal years.
Tax Reform
House Bill 366 plans to generate $400 million in additional revenue over the next two years. Sales tax on cigarettes will increase by 50 cents per pack. State sales tax will be expanded to the following services: small-animal veterinary services, janitorial services, laundry, and landscaping. A flat five percent tax on personal and corporate income taxes will be added. The $10 state personal income credit tax is to be removed, and itemized deductions will only be allowed for Social Security income, charitable givings, and mortgage income.
There are many more bills in the process of being passed or vetoed that may affect you in the future. To keep track of all of Kentucky’s laws changes, visit the Kentucky Legislature’s Recent News page.
