A RESOLUTION adjourning the Senate in honor and loving memory of Henry Nicholas "Nick" Baker.
Summary
SR174 is a simple commemorative Senate resolution honoring the life and public service of Henry Nicholas "Nick" Baker. The resolution recounts his upbringing in Hazard and Viper, Kentucky, his education at Georgetown College and the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, his military service in the U.S. Army and reserves, and his 50-year legal career in Louisville.
The resolution also highlights Baker’s service in the Kentucky Senate from 1970 to 1978 and specifically notes his sponsorship of Senate Bill 73, which required schools receiving state funds for boys’ basketball to also establish girls’ basketball teams. The measure frames that legislation as an important step for girls’ athletics and women’s opportunities in Kentucky. SR174 concludes by expressing condolences to his family and directing the Senate to adjourn in his memory.
Impact
SR174 does not change any substantive state law or create new legal obligations; it is a ceremonial resolution. Its practical effect is to formally recognize Nick Baker’s contributions to Kentucky, preserve that recognition in the legislative record, and transmit condolences to his family. The only policy-related reference is historical, describing Baker’s earlier role in advancing girls’ basketball through Senate Bill 73, but SR174 itself has no direct statutory impact.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SR174 is strongly positive and respectful. The resolution is written in a memorial tone, emphasizing Baker’s civic duty, faith, family, military service, legal career, and legislative accomplishments. The bill was adopted by voice vote, indicating broad, noncontroversial support and no recorded opposition in the available materials.
Contention
There is no notable contention in the available record. The resolution is commemorative rather than policy-driven, and no committee debate or vote breakdown is provided. The only potentially substantive reference is the mention of Baker’s earlier girls’ basketball legislation, but in this resolution it is presented as a celebrated achievement rather than a disputed issue.