Every year, state lawmakers gather at the capitol building in Frankfort, Kentucky, shaping the laws that govern our lives and those of our loved ones. In the current legislative session, scheduled to continue until April 15, 2024, Play Cousins Collective takes on the crucial role of monitoring legislation. Their mission is to elucidate how specific bills may impact communities and, importantly, to mobilize Black voters to engage with their state representatives and senators.

House Bill 5: Unpacking the Impact:

One such bill under scrutiny is House Bill 5, which employs "tough on crime" and "war on drugs" narratives. Unfortunately, it threatens to exacerbate the dehumanization and criminalization of Black, brown, and indigenous individuals, as well as poor and working-class white people. Here's a snapshot of the concerning outcomes that could result from this bill:

1. Ban on Street Camping:

   • House Bill 5 proposes fines and incarceration for individuals living on the streets ($250 fines and 90 days in jail).

2. End of Funding for "Housing First" Programs:

   • Housing First programs, known for their effectiveness in reducing homelessness and enhancing stability and quality of life, face the elimination of state and federal funds.

3. Restrictions on Community Bail Funds:

   • The bill aims to limit the operations of community bail funds, perpetuating disparities in the justice system based on wealth.

4. Punitive Measures for Parents of Juvenile Offenders:

   • Rather than supporting parents attending their children's court hearings, the bill proposes fines of $500 and 40 hours of community service.

Election Year Reminder:

As 2024 marks an election year, all 100 seats in Kentucky’s House of Representatives and 19 seats in Kentucky’s Senate are up for re-election. The voting decisions in May and November can be informed by observing how representatives vote on House Bill 5. This underscores the importance of staying informed and engaged in the political process.

Other Tracked Bills:

Play Cousins Collective is actively monitoring several other bills throughout the legislative process. Further information on these bills will be shared as they progress.

Get Involved:

To make your voice heard and hold your representatives accountable, follow these steps:

1. Visit tinyurl.com/findmylegislator2023.
2. Enter your full address in the search bar.
3. Click the "view bio page" button next to your senator and representative.
4. Save their name, phone number, email, and your district number for easy contact.

By actively engaging with the legislative process, staying informed, and participating in advocacy efforts, citizens can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their communities. Play Cousins Collective's commitment to tracking legislation serves as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging civic participation and accountability.

Join Play Cousins on Children Advocacy Day is January 24th, 2024:

Use this registration link below to sign up: https://playcousinscollective.wildapricot.org/event-5568106

 

Want to know what other bills Play Cousins Collective is tracking? Look out for our next article.