Kentucky 2026 Legislative Session is Complete!

It’s official — the Kentucky General Assembly has concluded its work for the 2026 session.

Thank you for using your voice to help move Kentucky toward a healthier future. This was a productive and fast-moving session, and we’re proud to share an overview of where meaningful progress was made, along with areas where work will continue. A lot has happened in the last 4 months, so this message is longer than usual.

Funding Priorities

Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES):
Lawmakers provided CARES funding to support a nationally recognized data system that tracks cardiac arrest incidents and outcomes. This investment strengthens Kentucky’s ability to use real-time data to improve response systems, enhance coordination of care, and ultimately increase survival rates across the Commonwealth.

Kentucky Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program (KHDSP):
While dedicated funding for KHDSP was not included in the final budget, the program received significant attention throughout the session. Talking with policymakers made it clear that it plays a key role in Kentucky’s public health system by gathering data, improving care, and helping leaders make informed decisions. We will continue working with legislative leaders to build on this momentum and pursue funding opportunities in the future.

CPR in Schools:
Ten years after CPR training became a graduation requirement in Kentucky, the General Assembly took an important next step by approving funding to support implementation. This investment will help schools access updated equipment and high-quality training resources, ensuring that the next generation of Kentuckians is prepared with lifesaving skills.

Tobacco Control

Cigar Bar Bill Defense:
This session, legislation was introduced that would have limited local governments’ authority to regulate cigar bars. Such a policy shift would have constrained local decision-making and increased exposure to secondhand smoke in communities across the state. The bill ultimately did not advance out of the Senate, protecting public health. We will continue working with partners and policymakers to ensure communities retain the ability to protect residents.

Access to Care

Medicaid Policy Improvements (HB 2):
House Bill 2 proposed significant changes to Kentucky’s Medicaid program, including increased administrative burdens and new cost-sharing requirements that could have created barriers to care. For Kentuckians with heart disease or other chronic illnesses requiring regular doctor’s appointments, these costs would have racked up quickly.

We were successful in defending against the most damaging provisions of this bill, including increases in co-pays, to bring Kentucky closer to alignment with federal requirements. These changes represent meaningful progress in maintaining stability within a program that serves approximately one in three Kentuckians.

This progress would not have been possible without you, our incredible American Heart Association Heart Powered advocates. It was you who sent messages, made calls, and met with lawmakers to make a meaningful difference in shaping policy and advancing health across Kentucky.

As we look ahead to 2027, we remain committed to building on this progress and changing the future of health in Kentucky.