2017 Kentucky Legislative Roundup

The 2017 Kentucky Legislative Session has ended.  ACS CAN saw a major win (see below) on tobacco cessation legislation!  We also saw progress on other critical issues that we will continue to push forward in the future.

Save Lives and Money by Establishing Strong Tobacco Control Policies

Tobacco Cessation Coverage:  ACS CAN strongly supported SB 89, to require all Kentucky insurers, including Medicaid and private insurers, to cover the treatments recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for tobacco cessation, including all seven Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications and all three forms of counseling without cost-sharing or prior authorization.  SB 89 passed with overwhelming support, and was signed into law on March 21, 2017!

Tobacco Free Schools: ACSCAN supported SB 78, to prohibit the use of tobacco products by students, school personnel, and visitors in schools, school vehicles, properties, and activities.

SB 78 passed 25-9 out of the Senate but did not receive a hearing in the House Education Committee.

Support Access to Patient-Centered and Family-Focused Palliative Care

ACS CAN advocated for SB 108, legislation to establish a state advisory council, consumer guide, and education program in Kentucky to increase palliative care initiatives and maximize their effectiveness.  SB 108 passed unanimously out of the Senate but was never heard in the House Health and Family Services Committee. 

Reduce Risk of Skin Cancer for Kentucky Youth

ACSCAN strongly supported SB 164, which would prohibit minors under the age of 18 from using indoor tanning devices.   The bill was assigned to the Senate Licensing & Operations Committee, a clear attempt to stall the bill, which never received a hearing in committee from moving forward.  ACS CAN will be back in full force in 2017 to pass this lifesaving legislation.