(WKYT) – A Senate Bill passed on Day 58 of the 2026 Legislative Session could mean changes for Kentucky’s two largest school districts.
Senate Bill 4 received final passage late Wednesday night.
Language in the bill would affect the eligibility for school board members. It states that if somebody resides in a different district and teaches in another one, they cannot be on the school board in the district where they live.
The changes would only apply to Fayette and Jefferson Counties due to the population size.
Lexington Representative Adrielle Camuel raised concerns about who the bill would affect.
“Part of the bill is directed at a member of my local school board in order to take care of a problem, and I will say that the voters of Fayette County will address the issue,” said Rep. Camuel. “It’s just worrisome and concerning that people who are experts in their field in two of the largest counties may not be eligible to run for their local school board.”
WKYT reached out to FCPS school board chair Tyler Murphy about the impact of Senate Bill 4.
“My students learn the value of civic engagement and involvement every day in my classroom. Tonight, a majority of the legislature told them that my voice as an educator has no merit on the school board in the community where I live and pay taxes.
This action not only undermines the voices of educators in the two counties that represent 25% of Kentucky’s population, it’s a slap in the face to voters who make up one of the most diverse communities in Lexington and who have twice elected me to serve them.
We’ve made significant progress as I’ve relied on my insight as a classroom educator to advocate for meaningful investments in our students and schools and strategic initiatives that have led to historic gains in student achievement.
This action obviously raises serious constitutional questions. For the sake of our students, our educators, our community, and our democracy, I wish our legislators would work with us to fully fund education, pay their share of school transportation costs, address the affordable housing crisis, ensure our children are fed, expand access to pre-K and health care, and support our most vulnerable families. In that work—the work that matters—they could count me a willing partner.”
The bill now goes to Governor Beshear.
