Senate approves bill giving Kentucky Horse Park authority to remove individuals barred by US Center for SafeSport

The Kentucky Senate on Jan. 30 passed Senate Bill 68, which clarifies and expands the Kentucky Horse Park Commission’s authority to remove individuals who pose a safety risk to guests, staff, or participants. The clerk reported the final vote as 35 yays and no nays.

Senator Mays Bledsoe was listed in the clerk’s reading as the bill sponsor. On the floor a senator identified as "Senator from Fayette 12" provided the explanation for the bill, stating it ‘‘gives the commission the legal authority to act when someone's presence puts that safety at risk’’ and specifically allows removal of individuals who have been restricted from Olympic, Paralympic, or equestrian sports by the U.S. Center for SafeSport. The sponsor described past instances at the horse park involving individuals on the SafeSport public list and said the bill ‘‘closes the gap’’ to ensure that authority exists to remove them from property.

The sponsor framed the measure as protecting families, athletes and visitors and preserving the Horse Park’s reputation as a central equestrian venue. The transcript quotes the sponsor saying the proposal ‘‘reflects Kentucky's responsibility to protect that legacy while ensuring the safety of all who visit and compete there.’’

After no floor debate was requested, the clerk called the roll. Multiple senators were recorded as voting 'Aye' in sequence on the roll call; the clerk then stated there being 35 yays and no nays, and declared SB 68 passed.

The bill’s text, as described on the floor, ties removal authority to individuals listed or suspended by the U.S. Center for SafeSport; the floor explanation referenced the Center as a national organization responsible for investigating abuse and misconduct in Olympic and amateur sports and maintaining a public list of suspended or banned individuals. The transcript does not record additional amendment or implementation details such as notice procedures or appeals process.

Next steps for SB 68 (e.g., enrollment, effective date, administrative rules) were not described on the floor during the Jan. 30 session.