A JOINT RESOLUTION directing a report on the transfer processes in interscholastic athletics.

2025 Regular Session

Directs KHSAA to report on two-year transfer processes in interscholastic athletics, evaluate the electronic system, and propose changes to improve eligibility and participation.

to Committee on Committees (S)

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Summary — HJR 49 (2025): Report on transfer processes in interscholastic athletics

Bill type: Joint Resolution
Title: A JOINT RESOLUTION directing a report on the transfer processes in interscholastic athletics
Introduced: November 12, 2024
Deadline for report: December 1, 2025
Status: Passed House (3rd reading adopted 92–0 on 03/07/2025); received in Senate and referred to Committee on Committees (S)

Purpose

HJR 49 directs the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) to prepare and submit a detailed report on its handling of student-athlete transfers between member schools. The resolution seeks information to inform possible legislative changes during the 2026 Regular Session, especially regarding process efficiency, statutory constraints, and impacts on student participation.

Key provisions / required report contents

By December 1, 2025, the KHSAA must submit to the Legislative Research Commission a report that includes:

A two–school-year accounting of transfers: transfers submitted, the initial ruling by the ruling officer, whether the case was appealed, appeal results, whether counsel was present at appeal, and the eventual ruling.

An evaluation of the recently implemented electronic system for managing transfers, and how that system has affected eligibility determinations and appeals.

A description of changes made or proposed through the KHSAA membership process and the outcomes of those changes.

Recommendations for statutory changes affecting the KHSAA, including consideration of exemptions from KRS Chapter 13B (the Kentucky Administrative Procedure Act) or revisions to administrative timelines/hearing procedures to improve transfer and eligibility review.

Context and background

The Kentucky Board of Education has designated KHSAA as its agent to manage interscholastic athletics. Nearly 290 public and nonpublic schools are KHSAA members.

KHSAA bylaws govern eligibility for student-athletes who transfer after participating at the varsity level in grade nine or above; these rules aim to prevent athletic advantage but can affect school choice.

The KHSAA is statutorily required to follow KRS Chapter 13B in processing transfers.

KHSAA has processed more than 900 transfer inquiries/forms in each of the past two years, indicating rising student mobility.

Delays or information gaps in transfer rulings can impair time-limited eligibility for student-athletes.

Who is affected

Student-athletes who transfer between member schools (eligibility and timely participation)

KHSAA (reporting and possible process/statute changes)

Member schools and their athletics programs

Families and legal counsel involved in appeals

The General Assembly, if it considers follow-up legislation in 2026

Legislative status & next steps

Passed the House (3/7/2025); transmitted to Senate and currently assigned to Senate Committee on Committees.

The report submitted by KHSAA will be referred by the Legislative Research Commission to the appropriate interim joint committee for consideration of possible legislation during the 2026 Regular Session.