Issues
“Our local families have busy lives and need to be certain that their needs are addressed by their elected officials. I have a proven record of sticking up for our communities in Frankfort and I will continue to be the conservative voice we need to put Kentucky on the right path forward. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve you at our state capital. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns.” – Rep. Ken Upchurch
Economic Improvements
I have earned a reputation in Frankfort as an outspoken advocate of both small business and agriculture. I have experience as an independent business owner in our district and I know the hurdles our industries have faced while the country recovers from recession. When money is tight, it’s government’s responsibility to remove undue burdens on our businesses. I don’t believe government makes jobs, but we can help make our state ripe for business growth. Because of the hard work of House Republicans over $650 million was invested in KY last year and our unemployment rate is at an all time low. I will always fight to keep new high-paying jobs for our region and continue with this progress.
Education
For the first time in over a decade State Employee and Teacher’s pensions were fully funded, and the per pupil funding formula was increased to the highest level ever. I have and always will fight to see our pensions are fully funded and safe.
See the good things Teachers’ Retirement System said in their June 2018 Newsletter. I have and always will fight to see our pensions are fully funded and safe.
Infrastructure & Transportation
As Chair of the House Transportation Committee, I am able to take a larger role on matters relating to state aid for local roads and streets as well as infrastructural projects (and much more). I serve on the Budget Review Subcommittee on Transportation which writes the state road plan. This role is vitally important in making our regions transportation projects first and foremost.
Transparency & Fiscal Responsibility
I will continue to expose wasteful, government spending that does not serve the interests of our region. We need to keep each other accountable to our actions and take responsibility for mistakes. By allowing the public better government transparency, we will foster a more honest and true relationship between the people and their state. As long as I am in office, I will stand up for fiscal responsibility and hold Frankfort accountable to the taxpayers.
Our Values
Our district is known for its scenic beauty, history and heritage. As your representative, I promise to uphold the values of our communities while at our state capital. I am 100% pro-life and was endorsed by Kentucky Right to Life during my last campaign. I have been pleased to co-sponsor legislation such as House Bill 2 in 2017, which requires an ultrasound 24 hours prior to an abortion. I will always protect the lives of our most vulnerable.
I will also continue to protect our religious freedom – a fundamental human right expressed in the First Amendment. To this point, I was a co-sponsor of House Bill 279 (2013) which prohibits the government from impeding religious activities. It is essential that we do not rest in our continued protection of this right.
We have a large community of outdoorsmen (men and women alike!) in our part of Kentucky and for good reason. We have an abundance of opportunity for outdoor sports activities and relaxation. Our Second Amendment right to gun ownership is a part of this lifestyle and I will always fight for our inalienable rights.
Support for Our Troops,
Vets, & First Responders
Real support for our military families is shown through proper resources and programs aimed at smoothing re-entry and a helping hand for the people left behind. As for our first responders, I was pleased to co-sponsor House Bill 14 in 2017. This measure classifies First-Responders as a protected class under Kentucky Hate Crimes Laws. Violence against our first responders is unacceptable. Every day, brave men and women fight for our ability to feel safe in our own neighborhoods, and they deserve our full protection.
