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HB 809

AN ACT relating to small business.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Deanna Gordon

HB 809 aims to support Kentucky small businesses by reducing regulatory burdens and expanding access to financing, resources, and procurement opportunities.

to Small Business & Information Technology (H)
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Bill Summary · HB 809

Overview

HB 809 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky) is an act relating to small business. The bill’s primary aim is to address issues affecting small businesses within the Commonwealth, including regulatory, financial, and procedural aspects that impact startup growth, operation, and resilience. The legislative history shows initial placement in the Small Business & Information Technology Committee, with introduction and referral occurring in early March 2026.

Main purpose and intent

  • Provide targeted measures to support, streamline, and protect small businesses in Kentucky.
  • Enhance access to resources, reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, and clarify requirements that disproportionately affect small enterprises.
  • Promote economic vitality by encouraging entrepreneurship, investment, and job creation in the small business sector.

Key provisions and changes (as proposed)

Note: The exact textual provisions are not provided in the summary data available. The following are typical categories such bills commonly address; if enacted, HB 809 would be expected to include at least some of these elements:

  • Regulatory reform

    • Create or modify state-level processes to ease licensing, permits, or reporting for small businesses.
    • Simplify or align compliance requirements to reduce administrative costs.

  • Financial support and incentives

    • Establish or expand grant, loan guarantee, or tax credit programs targeted at small businesses.
    • Expand access to state-funded financing or credit enhancements, potentially through a small business development fund.

  • Technical assistance and resources

    • Expand availability of business counseling, mentorship, and technical assistance through state agencies or quasi-governmental entities.
    • Promote digital readiness, cybersecurity, or technology adoption for small firms.

  • Procurement and contracting

    • Increase opportunities for small businesses to bid on state contracts.
    • Set aside or target procurement preferences for qualifying small businesses or minority/women-owned enterprises, if applicable.

  • Data, reporting, and accountability

    • Require periodic reporting on program outcomes or impact assessments for small business initiatives.
    • Establish metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of support measures.

  • Workforce and training

    • Support workforce development programs aligned with small business needs, including apprenticeships or targeted training grants.

Who would be affected

  • Small businesses and startups operating in Kentucky, across sectors.
  • Entrepreneurs seeking licensing, permitting, or assistance from state agencies.
  • Small business employers and their employees, particularly those benefiting from grants, tax credits, or procurement preferences.
  • State agencies administering small business programs, with potential changes in reporting, oversight, or funding.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: March 2, 2026
  • Committee referrals: Initially to Committees (H) and subsequently to the Small Business & Information Technology (H) committee on March 9, 2026.
  • Next steps (typical): Debate and potential amendments in committee, followed by floor consideration in the Kentucky House of Representatives, passage or defeat, and, if passed, transmission to the Senate for its consideration. Timelines would depend on committee action and floor schedules.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Economic impact: If enacted, HB 809 could lower operating costs for small businesses, accelerate startup growth, and improve retention of small enterprises.
  • Administrative impact: Possible reduction of regulatory burdens; potential new reporting requirements if program evaluations are mandated.
  • Fiscal impact: Availability of state funds for grants, loans, or incentives could affect state budgets and future allocations.
  • Equity and inclusion: Depending on provisions, could enhance participation of underserved groups in Kentucky's small business ecosystem.

Note: The summary reflects typical scope and implications for a bill titled “AN ACT relating to small business.” The exact provisions, dollar amounts, eligibility criteria, and regulatory changes would be detailed in the bill’s text as introduced and any subsequent amendments. For precise language and specific funding figures, please refer to the official bill text and fiscal note once published.

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

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