Kentucky Senate Bill SCR115

Kentucky 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/26
• Refer: 2/24/26

Caption

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION establishing the Economic Development Incentive Modernization Task Force.

Summary

SCR115 is a concurrent resolution that creates the Economic Development Incentive Modernization Task Force within the Legislative Research Commission. The task force is directed to study Kentucky’s current economic development initiatives, incentives, related policies, targeted sectors, and marketing efforts, and to compare them with those used by competitor states. It is also charged with identifying actions Kentucky should consider to improve the effectiveness and competitiveness of its economic development strategy. The resolution specifies a broad, bipartisan and stakeholder-heavy membership, including legislators from both chambers and both parties, cabinet officials, and representatives from business and local economic development organizations. The task force is to meet during the 2026 Interim and submit findings and recommendations by December 1, 2026, though the Legislative Research Commission may instead assign the study to an interim committee or subcommittee and set a different completion date.

Impact

SCR115 does not change substantive law or create new tax or incentive programs. Instead, it establishes a study process that could lead to future legislation affecting Kentucky’s economic development incentives, marketing strategy, and targeted industry sectors. Its immediate legal effect is to authorize the Legislative Research Commission to convene a task force or assign the study elsewhere, and to require a report of recommendations for legislative consideration.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment reflected in the resolution is constructive and reform-oriented. The bill’s findings express concern that Kentucky’s existing incentive structure has become less competitive over time and that other states have modernized their approaches more aggressively. Although no committee transcript or recorded vote is provided, the resolution’s framing suggests broad interest in reviewing and updating Kentucky’s economic development strategy rather than opposition to the concept of study itself.

Contention

The main point of contention implied by the resolution is whether Kentucky’s current economic development incentives and marketing efforts are sufficiently competitive and effective compared with other states. Another likely area of debate is what policy changes should follow the study, including whether Kentucky should expand incentives, shift targeted sectors, or alter marketing approaches. Because the measure only creates a task force and does not itself enact policy changes, any sharper disagreement would likely arise later when recommendations are converted into legislation.