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Bill Summary · HB 638

Summary of HB 638 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky)

Purpose and intent

  • This bill designates certain trees as state trees of Kentucky. Specifically, it changes the official state tree designation to include two species: the Kentucky coffeetree and the tulip poplar.

Key provisions

  • Amends Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS 2.095) to name and designate the Kentucky coffeetree and the tulip poplar as Kentucky’s state trees.
    • The bill text indicates a plural designation: both the Kentucky coffeetree and the tulip poplar are named as state trees.

Who or what is affected

  • State symbols: The designation impacts official state symbols by expanding or clarifying Kentucky’s state trees to include two species instead of a single tree.
  • Public recognition and potential educational/civic use: Schools, state agencies, and cultural institutions may reference both species as part of state symbolism.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and referrals:
    • Introduced in the Kentucky House of Representatives on February 12, 2026.
    • Referred to the Committee on Committees (House) on February 12, 2026.
    • Related action history shows subsequent referral to State Government (H) on February 20, 2026.
  • Status: As of the provided information, the bill is in the committee process and has not yet become law.

Additional notes

  • The text presents a straightforward statutory update, with minimal procedural requirements beyond passage by the General Assembly and approval by the Governor.
  • The bill uses an “unofficial copy” formatting, indicating it is a draft version circulated for consideration.

If you’d like, I can add a brief comparison to Kentucky’s current state tree designation (if any prior single-tree designation exists) or track subsequent floor actions and potential amendments.

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

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