(WKYT) – Kentucky lawmakers overrode dozens of vetoes from the governor on Tuesday as they returned to the state capitol.
The General Assembly took up bills focusing on education, legislation targeting the Jefferson and Fayette County school systems and the state budget.
Budget override
Gov. Andy Beshear used his line item veto power to strike numerous parts of the state budget. He said he was concerned over unfunded mandates and cuts to Medicaid. On Tuesday some Democrats said they fear the budget will hurt disaster response.
“This budget has constrained what we can send for disaster relief,” said Rep. Mary Lou Marzian, D-Ky District 41.
“The governor chooses not to follow the law because he doesn’t want to do it, instead of quoting accurate cases,” said Rep. David Meade, R-Ky District 80.
Both chambers also overrode House Bill 2 that deals with Medicaid reform.
“I think we demonstrated time in time out that there is a lack of oversight and a lack of accountability, and a lack of responsibility,” said Rep. Ken Fleming, R-Ky District 48.
School board eligibility
The veto of Senate Bill 4 was overridden by both House and Senate and was sent to the Secretary of State’s office to be certified. Its original language was for a principal leadership program but while in conference committee language was added that focuses on school board member eligibility for the state’s two largest districts.
The bill will have a direct impact on Fayette County’s board chairman. Tyler Murphy may not be able to continue as board chairman according to the bill’s language.
Senate Bill 4’s override cleared the Senate 30-8. Sen. Gerald Neal was among the Democrats who voted no.
“We should not move toward with legislation that creates uncertainty for families. For that reason I urge to sustain the veto,” said Neal, D-Ky District 33, Minority Floor Leader.
Lawmakers also overrode the veto of Senate Bill 100, which deals with attorney general appointments in energy planning.
Kentucky lawmakers have one more day to pass laws and must adjourn by midnight Wednesday night.