SENATOR BRANDON SMITH’S INTERIM UPDATE

Although the 2026 Legislative Session concluded earlier this year, the work of the General Assembly continues throughout the interim. Legislative committees have now begun meeting to examine issues, review state programs, hear from experts and gather information to help shape policy discussions and legislation ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session.

In the interim, I continue serving as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committee (IJC) on Natural Resources and Energy. I also serve on the IJC on Transportation, the IJC on Banking and Insurance and the IJC on Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection[PF(1] . I am also a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Protection.

Coal and Kentucky's energy future

One of the most significant developments this month was the Trump administration's announcement of nearly $700 million in federal investments supporting coal-fired generation, coal infrastructure and coal exports.

For eastern Kentucky, this announcement represents recognition that coal miners, coal communities and the energy resources that have powered this nation for generations still matter.

Coal continues to support thousands of jobs in Kentucky while providing reliable, affordable electricity that families and businesses depend on every day. As electricity demand continues growing because of advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and other emerging industries, maintaining a diverse energy portfolio is more important than ever.

Kentucky has long benefited from an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and I will continue to advocate for policies that support coal, natural gas, nuclear energy[PF(2]  and other resources that strengthen energy reliability, affordability and security.

Natural resources and energy

The IJC on Natural Resources and Energy also met to review several important issues affecting Kentucky's energy and environmental future.

Committee members received updates on the work of the Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC), which was created by the General Assembly to provide independent, data-driven analysis of Kentucky’s long-term energy needs.

Among the reports discussed was a new analysis examining the opportunities and challenges associated with large-scale data center development in Kentucky. This is a red-hot topic all across the commonwealth, and I am following it closely. The report highlights Kentucky's competitive advantages, including affordable electricity, available land and expanding infrastructure, while emphasizing the importance of planning ahead to protect existing ratepayers and maintain grid reliability.

As co-chair of the committee, I believe Kentucky is well-positioned to compete for these economic opportunities, but we must ensure growth occurs responsibly and without sacrificing the affordable and reliable electricity Kentuckians expect.

Committee members also reviewed reports related to electric generation resources, broadband deployment, utility infrastructure and environmental monitoring efforts occurring across the commonwealth.

Economic development and investment

Economic development remains a major focus during the interim.

Lawmakers recently received updates on Kentucky's continued success in attracting business investment and job creation. Discussion included House Bill 869, enacted earlier this year, which creates a more targeted approach to economic development incentives by providing additional tools for distressed and rural communities seeking to compete for investment.

These conversations are particularly important for eastern Kentucky as we continue working to diversify local economies while building upon our existing strengths in energy, manufacturing, tourism and natural resources.

Public safety and the pursuit of justice

The IJC on Judiciary recently received an update from Attorney General Russell Coleman regarding several public safety priorities.

During that discussion, Coleman again urged Gov. Andy Beshear to issue a death warrant for Ralph Baze, who was convicted of murdering Powell County Sheriff Steve Bennett and Deputy Arthur Briscoe in 1992. Coleman stated there are no pending questions regarding guilt, no unresolved intellectual disability claims and no legal barriers preventing action.

As many of you know, I have followed this case closely and have spoken repeatedly on behalf of the Bennett and Briscoe families. More than three decades have passed since these murders occurred. Kentucky juries and courts have spoken, appeals have been exhausted and the families deserve closure. I continue to believe that the rule of law requires that lawful sentences be carried out, and that justice delayed is justice denied.

Looking ahead

The interim period provides lawmakers with an opportunity to study issues carefully, hear directly from constituents and stakeholders, and prepare for future legislative action.

Whether the topic is energy policy, economic development, transportation infrastructure or public safety, my focus remains on advocating for eastern Kentucky and ensuring our region continues moving forward.

As always, I encourage you to stay engaged throughout the interim. Committee meetings are streamed live and archived through KET and the General Assembly's online platforms. Your ideas, concerns and perspectives help inform the work we do in Frankfort, and I always welcome hearing from you.

It remains the honor of my life to represent the people of the 30th Senate District.

Sen. Brandon Smith, R-Hazard, represents the 30th Senate District, which includes Breathitt, Estill, Lee, Leslie, Magoffin, Morgan, Perry, Powell, and Wolfe Counties. He serves as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy. He also serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Banking and Insurance; Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection; and Transportation. Smith is a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Protection. In 2024, he served on the Artificial Intelligence Task Force. Additionally, he is a member of the Blockchain Working Group and the Housing Policy Advisory Committee.