Senator Danny Carroll's Legislative Update

The following is entirely the work of the author, and does not necessarily reflect the views of the news staff at West Kentucky Star.

On this Memorial Day, honor the brave service members who have given their lives so that we may enjoy freedom. We have all lived with new health and safety precautions over the past several months. In light of that, our appreciation for the liberties for which these brave men and women died should be as visible as ever. We are blessed to live as citizens of both the United States and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and that is due to the sacrifices of others.
 
Memorial Day was established to honor those who perished in the Civil War, which claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S history. In May 2000, a "National Moment of Remembrance" was established as an opportunity for citizens to join together and memorialize the brave service men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This Memorial Day at 3 p.m. local time, citizens across the United States are encouraged to pause for a moment of silence to honor our fallen heroes. We also honor the families of these heroes who live on and continue to preserve the memories of their loved ones. Families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty are known as "Gold Star Families." 
 
The Kentucky General Assembly strives to honor our military heroes by implementing policies that make our Commonwealth a welcoming place for active service members, veterans, and their families. During the 2020 legislative session, funding was secured to cover pre-construction costs for the Bowling Green Veterans Center. Legislation was also passed that allows military members to count a home they are building as a residence for public school enrollment purposes, ensuring their children's education continues smoothly without the hassle of red tape. In past sessions, legislation was signed into law granting occupational license reciprocity to members of reserve forces, National Guard, veterans, and their spouses. Finally, the General Assembly recently passed a bill to allow military paramedics to use their training toward a civilian paramedic certification. 
 
As state restrictions begin to relax, I encourage you to continue to exercise safe practices as you enjoy Memorial Day with loved ones. In memory of our fallen heroes, may we all appreciate the blessings of freedom like never before. President John F. Kennedy once said:
 
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them." 
 
It is my honor to serve as your state senator. I wish you and your family a safe and blessed Memorial Day weekend.
 
If you have any questions or comments about these issues or any other public policy issue, please call me toll-free at 1-800-372-7181 or email me at danny.carroll@lrc.ky.gov.