Kentucky House Bill HB455

Kentucky 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/23/23
• Report Pass: 3/2/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/9/23

Caption

AN ACT amending the 2022-2024 Judicial Branch biennial budget, making an appropriation therefor, and declaring an emergency.

Impact

The enactment of HB 455 will notably affect the local judicial facilities by streamlining funding and addressing the fiscal needs for scope increases associated with certain county projects. By deferring some project costs to future fiscal bienniums, the bill is poised to manage state resources more effectively, ensuring that necessary projects are not hindered by immediate budget constraints. This approach is expected to cover operational costs and support ongoing judicial functions without requiring additional state revenues imminently.

Summary

House Bill 455 amends the 2022-2024 Judicial Branch biennial budget and makes specific appropriations related to various facility projects within the judicial system. This legislation aims to reorganize funding allocations for projects across different counties in Kentucky and asserts the intent to use any funds from projects that no longer require allowance debt payments. Moreover, it emphasizes ensuring those projects are well-supported financially during the specified fiscal periods.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 455 appears to be supportive among legislators, with the bill passing unanimously through the House (96 yeas to 0 nays). This overwhelming support suggests a consensus on the necessity of funding for judicial projects, indicating that lawmakers recognize the importance of maintaining and upgrading judicial facilities for effective governance. However, the reliance on future appropriations may raise concerns among some that immediate needs might not be met adequately.

Contention

While there seems to be broad support for HB 455, potential contention could arise regarding the deferral of general fund support for projects. This could delay necessary improvements to local judicial facilities and might lead to unequal access to justice if some counties are left without adequate funding in a timely manner. Additionally, the emergency declaration embedded in the bill indicates urgency; yet, it raises questions about the long-term planning and fiscal management strategies of the state regarding its judicial infrastructure.