For the sixth consecutive year, I am looking forward to writing weekly updates for the local newspapers in my district.

I am comforted by the fact many readers have mentioned they read my weekly articles and the information I provide.

When I first ran for office, I always pledged I would make sure to inform folks back home about what is happ ening in Frankfort. I also pledged I would use this office as a tool, rather than a trophy.

The first week of the 2020 Regular Session was rather productive.

It was a pleasure to begin the session Tuesday with a customary visit from the 100th Army Band from Fort Knox, who performed an extraordinary rendition of “My Old Kentucky Home” and our National Anthem.

Much of the first day is consumed by procedural measures. But, based on the feedback from our constituents, the Senate has prioritized several pieces of legislation we are hopeful of passing this session.

Those bills were assigned to their respective committees this week. Hearings on these bills will begin next week and will provide the public an opportunity to learn about the legislation.

I have the honor of serving as Chairman on the Senate Health and Welfare committee and already have 13 bills for consideration in my committee.

For a bit of a civics lesson, bills must be presented at a public committee meeting and passed with a majority vote before heading back to the Senate to be voted on by the entire Senate body.

If the bill is approved by the Senate, it heads to the House, where the same process occurs. Bills passed by both chambers are submitted to the governor for approval.

However, the largest responsibility for the 2020 Session is the General Assembly’s duty to pass a balanced two-year budget and two-year road fund plan.

My colleagues and I in the Senate Majority are working diligently with members of the House in preparation for this crucial responsibility. I look forward to continued discussions on this matter throughout the coming weeks.

As is customary, I have introduced 10 bills thus far I find essential to moving our state forward.

My legislation works to improve health outcomes, recognize the demanding work of first responders, and addresses inadequacies within taxation and health care policy.

Senate Bill 5 is a bill of particular significance to me. It would require increases in ad-valorem taxes and certain fees by special purpose governmental entities be submitted for review within the legislative body of the county or city they were established.

SB 5 will provide necessary oversight of taxing entities, and allow Kentucky taxpayers the voice they deserve in those discussions. I have confidence in the passage of this bill.

You can find SB 5, along with other legislation that has been filed by visiting legislature.ky.gov.

As always, do not hesitate to call me about this issue or any other public policy issue at 1-800-372-7181 or email me at Ralph.Alvarado@LRC.ky.gov.

I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the 28th District and encourage your feedback throughout the legislative session.

God bless you, and be safe.

Sen. Ralph Alvarado (R-Winchester) represents the 28th State Senate District including Clark and Montgomery counties and the eastern portion of Fayette County.