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Bill

SR 186

A RESOLUTION endorsing the Ohio River Restoration Program Act to support clean water, healthy fish and wildlife populations, economic development, and expanded recreation opportunities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shelley Frommeyer and 1 co-sponsor

Kentucky endorses the Ohio River Restoration Program Act to improve water quality, restore ecosystems, and boost recreation and economic development along the river.

adopted by voice vote
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 186

Legislative bill overview

SR 186 is a resolution that endorses the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, expressing Kentucky's legislative support for federal initiatives aimed at improving water quality and ecosystem health in the Ohio River. The resolution calls for action to support clean water, restore fish and wildlife populations, promote economic development, and enhance recreational opportunities along the river corridor within Kentucky.

Why is this important

The Ohio River is a critical resource for Kentucky, affecting drinking water supplies for multiple communities, supporting commercial and recreational fishing industries, and providing economic value through barge transportation and tourism. Restoration efforts could address longstanding water quality concerns, habitat degradation, and industrial pollution legacies while potentially creating jobs in environmental remediation and outdoor recreation sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal vs. state authority: Questions about how much control Kentucky retains over restoration priorities versus federal program directives and funding conditions
  • Cost allocation and funding: Unclear how restoration expenses will be split between state, federal, and potentially private sources, and whether Kentucky taxpayers will bear significant costs
  • Industrial interests: Potential conflicts with barge transportation, coal industry, and manufacturing sectors that depend on the river for operations and may face new environmental regulations or restrictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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