A JOINT RESOLUTION directing the Governor to establish a sister city/state partnership between the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Shomron Regional Council of Israel.
Summary
HJR56 is a joint resolution that directs the Governor of Kentucky to establish a sister city/state partnership, by memorandum of understanding, between the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the Shomron Regional Council of Israel. The resolution frames the relationship as one grounded in shared values such as faith, family, community, liberty, self-governance, cultural heritage, and economic vitality, and it expresses support for the people of Shomron and their continued resilience.
The resolution also states that the partnership should encourage exchange between the two regions, including ideas, commerce, culture, and innovation. It includes a formal commendation of the Shomron Regional Council and directs the House Clerk to transmit the resolution to Governor Andy Beshear. As a joint resolution, it is a policy statement and directive to the executive branch rather than a change to Kentucky’s statutory code.
Impact
If adopted and implemented, the resolution would not amend Kentucky statutes or create a new regulatory program. Its practical effect would be to instruct the Governor to pursue a formal memorandum of understanding establishing a sister city/state relationship with the Shomron Regional Council, potentially opening channels for diplomatic, cultural, educational, and economic exchange. The measure primarily affects the Governor’s office and any state or local entities that might participate in the partnership.
Sentiment
The bill text reflects strongly supportive sentiment toward the proposed partnership and toward Shomron, emphasizing shared heritage, resilience, and mutual benefit. Because there are no committee transcripts or recorded votes provided, there is no direct evidence of opposition or debate in the available materials. On its face, the resolution is framed as a commendatory and affirmative measure.
Contention
The main potential point of contention is the resolution’s subject matter: a formal partnership with the Shomron Regional Council of Israel, which may raise foreign policy, geopolitical, or symbolic concerns for some legislators or observers. The text itself does not present opposing arguments, but the emphasis on biblical and historical claims, as well as the directive to recognize Shomron in an official state relationship, could be viewed as controversial by those who prefer state neutrality on international disputes or question the appropriateness of such a partnership. No specific dissenting members or groups are identified in the provided record.
A JOINT RESOLUTION relating to unconstitutional acts that would undermine the rights of Kentucky citizens and the sovereignty of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
A RESOLUTION honoring the 140th anniversary of Kentucky American Water and the role the company has played in the prosperity of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
A RESOLUTION recognizing September 17, 2025, as United States Constitution Day and June 1, 2025, as Kentucky Constitution Day in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION urging the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to petition the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials to designate certain highways as United States Highway 111.