Kentucky Senate President presented with Legislative MVP Award

Robert Halcomb, The Times-Tribune, Corbin, Ky.
·2 min read
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.

Oct. 31—CORBIN — Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers (R-Manchester) was presented with a special baseball bat on Monday during his appearance at the October luncheon for the Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to honor his leadership in the Kentucky Senate. The award is given out every year to "legislative MVPs."

Sen. Stivers, who represents Whitley and Knox counties in his district, also served as the featured speaker for the luncheon, which happened at the Corbin Center. Stivers had much to say about the recent fiscal success Kentucky's state government has experienced.

Stivers said, "From a fiscal position...we are in a good spot. We are actually generating money from our reserve funds."

The primary theme of Stivers' discussion of Kentucky's fiscal situation was maintaining a competitive edge with neighboring states like Tennessee. The lack of an income tax in Tennessee is an aspect of the state that is frequently cited as a reason why many have recently decided to move there. Sen. Stivers, in discussing how Kentucky can leverage their newfound funds, suggested that the income tax rate can continue to be lowered to remain competitive. Stivers also suggested that a constitutional amendment be passed so that the state legislators can alter the tax code.

Additionally, Sen. Stivers made statements about his belief that more money must be put into the education system in Kentucky.

Stivers said, "We have to be competitive in order to get the best and brightest for our students."

Stan Baker of SEKRI (Southeastern Kentucky Rehabilitation Industries), who sponsored the luncheon, also spoke on Monday. The company was founded in 1971 and prides itself on giving employment opportunities to those with disabilities. Baker stated that "400 of our 700 employees have been diagnosed with a significant disability." The company manufactures various textiles, but most notably produces caps, fire retardant garments, and other clothing for the United States Military.