In an unexpected turn of events, two Republican-sponsored bills faced rejection in Kentucky’s legislature committee on Thursday, signaling a rare opposition within the GOP-controlled committee. House Bill 255, aimed at easing certain child labor laws to extend working hours for 16- and 17-year-olds during school weeks, and House Bill 367, seeking alterations to food stamp eligibility criteria, failed to garner enough votes to advance.
House Bill 255 proposed removing restrictions on the hours minors could work during school weeks but faced opposition due to concerns regarding the potential exploitation of young workers. Although the bill received five yes votes, it fell short of the six votes required for approval. Additionally, House Bill 367, which aimed to change SNAP benefits eligibility for able-bodied adults, encountered resistance amid fears that it could deprive vulnerable individuals of essential assistance.
While the bills have not been completely discarded, Committee Chairman Sen. Max Wise indicated the possibility of reconsideration in a special called committee meeting. However, House Bill 367 was not included in the agenda for the meeting, suggesting a more uncertain fate for this particular legislation.
Both bills underwent modifications during the committee review process. House Bill 255 saw revisions reinstating a ban on 16- and 17-year-olds working between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., addressing some concerns regarding late-night work for minors. Meanwhile, House Bill 367 was scaled back in its requirements, removing the need for SNAP beneficiaries to prove their total assets are below a certain threshold.
Despite these changes, concerns remain, particularly regarding the potential impact on vulnerable populations. Dustin Pugel, a senior policy analyst, highlighted that the revised language of House Bill 367 still puts thousands of adults at risk of losing crucial food assistance.
Opposition to the bills was not limited to Democrats, with some Republicans expressing reservations as well. Senator Jason Howell criticized House Bill 367, stating it contradicted efforts to address issues such as the “benefits cliff” that hinder economic progress for working individuals and their families.
Senate President Robert Stivers emphasized that the rejection of the bills was part of the legislative process, leaving open the possibility of revival and eventual passage.
The outcome of these bills reflects a nuanced debate within the Kentucky legislature, balancing concerns over labor rights, social welfare, and economic policy.