Rising property values across Kentucky are putting real pressure on families—especially seniors living on fixed incomes. Too many people in the 14th District are facing higher tax bills and tough decisions about whether they can afford to stay in the homes they’ve lived in for decades.

At the same time, local governments are limited by state law in how they can raise revenue, leaving them overly dependent on property taxes.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

We need to lessen the reliance on property taxes by giving local communities more flexibility—within state law—to diversify how they fund essential services. In areas like the 14th District, that could include expanded use of tourism-based revenue where it makes sense.

Protect Seniors and Those on Fixed Incomes

Kentucky already provides a homestead exemption for seniors and disabled homeowners—but it’s not enough. I support going further by:

• Freezing property taxes for homeowners 65 and older

• Extending stronger protections for Kentuckians living with disabilities

No one should be taxed out of their home after a lifetime of hard work.

Stand with Veterans

Kentucky honors 100% service-disabled veterans with a full property tax exemption. We should build on that commitment by exploring additional relief for more disabled veterans and military retirees.

Other states are actively attracting veterans and retirees with stronger tax advantages—we should be competing to bring those families here, not losing them.

Empower Local Communities

Every community is different. Frankfort shouldn’t force a one-size-fits-all approach. By giving counties and cities more tools—while maintaining accountability—we can ensure they meet local needs without overburdening homeowners.

The Bottom Line

We can protect homeowners, support seniors and veterans, and give our communities the flexibility they need—all while keeping Kentucky competitive.

It’s about fairness, stability, and making sure the people who built our communities can afford to stay in them.

Kentucky’s education funding system hasn’t kept pace with the needs of today’s students—or today’s economy.

The SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) formula, which helps fund our public schools, was created decades ago to ensure fairness across districts. While its mission is important, the formula is now outdated and increasingly strained.

It’s time to update how we fund education so it reflects:

• Today’s economic realities

• Current state revenue streams

• The true cost of educating each student

Reduce Overreliance on Property Taxes

We need to rebalance the system so local property wealth doesn’t determine educational opportunity. A more sustainable funding mix will create greater fairness across all districts.

Focus on Outcomes, Not Just Inputs

More funding alone isn’t the answer—we need to ensure resources are targeted toward:

• Early literacy and math success

• Proven intervention strategies

• Programs that support every type of learner

• College and career readiness programs

Support Local Schools Without Overburdening Taxpayers

Kentucky families are already carrying a heavy load. We can better support our schools while also creating a system that is fair to taxpayers.

The Bottom Line

Every child in Kentucky deserves access to a high-quality education, no matter their ZIP code.

By modernizing our funding formula and focusing on real outcomes, we can better support our teachers, strengthen our schools, and give every student the opportunity to succeed.

Kentucky was built on agriculture. The family farm isn’t just part of our history—it’s the foundation of many of the communities we call home, especially across the 14th District.

But today, that way of life is under real pressure.

Farmers across Kentucky are facing rising costs for fuel, equipment, seed, and fertilizer—while profit margins remain tight.

A Stronger Future for Agriculture

Recognize Agriculture as a Core Industry

Agriculture should be treated as a key pillar of Kentucky’s economy, not an afterthought. That means including it in long-term economic development planning at every level.

Invest in Innovation & Education

Kentucky has the opportunity to lead in agricultural innovation. By strengthening partnerships with our universities and expanding research and development, we can:

• Open new markets for Kentucky farmers

• Improve efficiency and profitability

• Position Kentucky as a global leader in agricultural education

Support the Next Generation of Farmers

If we want agriculture to survive, we must make it a viable career again by:

• Lowering barriers to entry

• Supporting beginning farmers

• Creating pathways for young Kentuckians to stay on the land

If we lose our farms, we lose more than an industry—we lose a defining part of who we are.

By investing in agriculture, protecting farmland, and supporting Kentucky farmers, we can preserve our rural communities while strengthening one of the most important sectors of our economy.