Kentucky 2026 Heart at the Capitol: Turning Passion into Policy

On February 18th, 2026, the American Heart Association united its passionate Heart Powered advocates at the Kentucky State Capitol Annex in Frankfort for Kentucky Heart at the Capitol, a day dedicated to raising voices for healthier lives and stronger communities. 56 advocates, along with volunteers from the Kentucky Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention (KHDSP) Task Force, came together to champion policies that prevent disease, improve health, and save lives.

Throughout the day, advocates first held a legislative breakfast with lawmakers stopping by to mingle, followed by 12 in-office meetings with state legislators to support our three budget requests filed by House Majority Leader Rep. Steven Rudy. Majority Leader Rudy and Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade both attended our event. Advocates continued these conversations with legislators to share why heart health matters and how smart policies can make a real difference. Discussions centered on reinstating the CARES Registry, funding for the implementation of CPR in Schools, and public health funding for the KHDSP Program, sparking meaningful dialogue about the role of policy in creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.

The impact did not stop at the meetings. As a result of these efforts, following our lobby day and strong advocate presence, Senator Greg Elkins chose to file our budget request in the Senate. These actions highlight the powerful influence of people coming together to advocate for meaningful change.

One of the most inspiring moments of the day came from the powerful stories shared at our event. Mallory Jones, a cardiac arrest survivor and former Miss Teen Kentucky, spoke about her experience and the importance of emergency response. Dr. John Ferguson addressed the importance of CPR, while Dr. Larry Goldstein spoke on his 20 years of experience working with the KHDSP Task Force. Additionally, Dr. Shayan Mohammadmoradi presented on his American Heart Association-funded research project at the University of Kentucky, highlighting the AHA’s impact here at home in the Commonwealth. Their stories reminded us that behind every policy is a person, and that advocacy turns personal experiences into progress for all.

Kentucky Heart at the Capitol proved what’s possible when we unite to change the future of health: policies that protect hearts, prevent disease, and build healthier communities for generations to come.

Want to learn more? Check out media coverage from the event here and help us spread the word by liking and sharing our Facebook post.

Your voice matters—act now! Join American Heart Association Heart Powered and help shape policies that save lives. Visit https://heartpowered.org or text KY to 46839 today to make an immediate impact.