A RESOLUTION recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Scotia Mine Disaster in Letcher County.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Madon and 1 co-sponsor

SR 165 formally commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Scotia Mine Disaster, honoring victims and acknowledging its impact on the community and mining safety, with no new laws or

adopted by voice vote

#coal #commendationsandrecognitions #mineralsandmining

Summary of SR 165 (2026RS) – Kentucky

Purpose and intent

SR 165 is a ceremonial resolutions bill recognizing and commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Scotia Mine Disaster in Letcher County, Kentucky.

The resolution serves to honor the victims, acknowledge the impact on the community, and highlight the historical significance of the event within the Commonwealth.

Key provisions and changes

Formal recognition: The resolution designates the Scotia Mine Disaster anniversary as a milestone worthy of commemoration by the Kentucky General Assembly.

Remembrance and reflection: It calls for remembrance of those affected, including miners who lost their lives and those who suffered injuries.

Community and historical acknowledgment: The resolution may reference the disaster’s impact on mining safety practices, regulatory considerations, and the community of Letcher County.

No new laws or fiscal obligations: As a resolution, it does not enact new statutes, create agencies, nor require operating or capital expenditures by the state beyond potential symbolic actions (e.g., statements, ceremonies).

Who/what is affected

The primary focus is symbolic and commemorative, affecting:

The residents and families in Letcher County and the broader mining community.
The Commonwealth of Kentucky, by recognizing a historical event of statewide relevance.

No direct regulatory, budgetary, or administrative mandates are imposed on agencies or individuals.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction: March 13, 2026 (Senate).

Committee action: March 13, 2026, referred to the Committee on Committees (S).

Floor consideration: March 16, 2026, advanced to the Senate Floor.

Adoption: March 27, 2026, adopted by voice vote.

Nature of action: Non-binding resolution; passage signifies formal recognition but does not change law or policy.

Context and significance

The Scotia Mine Disaster is a historical event in Kentucky mining history. By passing SR 165, the Legislature publicly honors the memory of those affected and acknowledges the event’s lasting impact on the community and mining safety awareness.

The resolution aligns with typical commemorative legislative practice, fostering public remembrance without imposing new regulatory or financial commitments.