Sen. Steve Meredith was recently recognized for his advocacy of healthcare in Kentucky.
Meredith, R-Leitchfield, was honored as a 2024 Legislative Champion by the American Advocates for Health.
The award “recognizes his unwavering commitment to advancing health policy initiatives within the General Assembly and throughout the commonwealth.”
Meredith’s property rights bill approved by Senate
Meredith’s measure aimed at protecting property rights has advanced through the Senate.
Senate Bill (SB 118) empowers private property owners with a simple and effective means to mark their no trespassing boundaries. It permits the use of purple paint marks on trees, fences, or objects, eliminating the need for written notices.
“Protecting property rights for Kentuckians is vital,” Meredith said. “SB 118 provides property owners with a practical tool to assert their rights and deter trespassing. By simplifying the boundary marking process, this bill aids law enforcement in enforcing trespassing laws.”
In addition to protecting property rights and combating criminal trespassing, SB 118 also addresses the pressing issue of hunting accidents. Many of these incidents involve individuals who are not actively engaged in hunting but reside on the property where the hunt occurs. Moreover, farmers and ranchers suffer significant losses of livestock annually due to unintended shootings.
“By implementing the purple paint solution outlined in SB 118, property owners not only gain a practical tool to assert their rights but also contribute to reducing the risk of such accidents,” Meredith said. “This measure simplifies boundary marking procedures, aiding law enforcement in enforcing trespassing laws while promoting safer hunting practices and safeguarding agricultural assets.”
Under SB 118, purple paint marks must meet specific visibility criteria. They should be vertical lines, at least eight inches long and one inch wide, positioned between three to five feet from the ground. Spacing should be no more than 100 feet on forest land or 1,000 feet on other types of land.
SB 18 passed in the Senate last week and is now with the House for their consideration. Learn more about other bills and the 2024 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly at www.Legislature.ky.gov.
(Meredith displays his 2024 Legislative Champion award from the American Advocates for Health, courtesy of David Hargis, Public Information Office, Legislative Research Commission)
By Ken Howlett, News Director and Sen. Steve Meredith
