A nonpartisan organization has presented a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the public’s oversight of the Kentucky legislature, specifically targeting the issue of “shell bills.” These bills often appear harmless but can be swiftly transformed into significant policy changes during the frantic conclusion of legislative sessions.

The League of Women Voters of Kentucky highlighted a dramatic rise in the introduction of shell bills, noting that there were 140 such bills introduced in the 2024 legislative session, a stark contrast to just 15 in 2010.

“These bills often act as last-minute diversions, overwhelming both lawmakers and the public,” stated Jennifer Jackson, the organization’s president, during a news conference held in Frankfort.

The league is calling for an end to the use of shell bills and has proposed several changes aimed at how legislators conduct their duties. Jackson emphasized that the objective is to enhance the transparency of the legislative process and promote greater public involvement.

Kentucky’s legislators are scheduled to reconvene in January for a 30-day session that will conclude in late March. In late 2023, the league expressed its opposition to expedited processes that are occasionally employed by lawmakers to expedite the passage of legislation, which the league argues can leave Kentuckians with little or no opportunity for input. The group is advocating for lawmakers to take a step back and allow more time for constituents to engage with proposed legislation.

A year later, the issue of fast-tracked bills continues to be a concern, according to Jackson. These strategies are particularly prevalent at the end of legislative sessions when time is running short for lawmakers.

“While these practices are often justified by the need for efficiency, they inadvertently silence the voices of ordinary Kentuckians,” Jackson asserted. “The push for efficiency often results in diminished public involvement and transparency.”

In its recent report, the league recommended that legislators adhere to a regular meeting schedule, ensuring the public has timely notice and access to information about draft bills prior to the beginning of the legislative session. The most significant criticism focused on the practice of using shell bills.

Jackson explained that these bills often start with little or no content. After the deadline for filing bills has passed, they can be amended into substantial legislation, typically toward the end of a session.

The league cited an illustrative example regarding a gambling-related measure. Initially, it aimed to amend parimutuel betting laws to be gender-neutral. However, near the session’s conclusion, it morphed into a comprehensive 282-page bill that proposed extensive changes to gambling regulations in Kentucky.

“This left no opportunity for a comprehensive review – not even a brief synopsis,” Jackson pointed out. “When significant measures are hurried through without appropriate scrutiny, it compels us to question whether this is truly in the best interest of Kentucky’s residents.”

The league’s discussion regarding legislative practices is not about taking a stance or contesting legislative judgments, according to Jackson. Instead, it aims to present actionable steps that foster transparency and ensure that citizens can voice their concerns regarding legislation that has an impact on their lives.