Kentucky Association of Counties

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Kentucky Association of Counties

The County Voice



KACo has a strong voice representing Kentucky counties at the state and federal levels. We work to promote counties first, preserve county decision making and protect counties from cost shifting and preemption of authority.



KACo Advocacy Team


Jim Henderson
Executive Director/CEO

Shellie Hampton
Director of Government Affairs

Kayla Carter Smith
Policy Analyst

2026 Legislative Priority: Reshaping the Shared Responsibility of County Jails

Kentucky county jails are at a crisis point, with fiscal court subsidies rising more than 76% in six years and counties forced to raise taxes or cut essential services just to keep their facilities operating.

KACo has published a one-page document with key points of HB 557, our comprehensive jails proposal.


Know Your Legislator

Find listings for Kentucky's legislators by chamber including a short biography, committee assignments and contact information for both their Capitol office and home district.

We encourage members to meet with legislators in their district prior to the start of the legislative session to update them on issues important to counties and how those issues will affect their district in particular. During the session, stay engaged and visit legislators in Frankfort as bills make their way through the legislative process.


Legislative News

April 20, 2021
2021 Legislative Accomplishment - Elections Reform
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected all facets of daily life, and the 2020 election cycle was no exception.
April 01, 2021
Livingston new KMCA president; several other officers installed
KMCA has faithfully served Kentucky fiscal courts since 1952.
March 19, 2021
2021 Legislative Session Update: Week 7
It’s now a waiting game as the governor considers any vetoes he might issue through March 27.
March 19, 2021
Robbins named executive director of KCAA
Former Madison County Attorney replaces Bill Patrick, who recently retired.
March 17, 2021
Legislation passes to set aside $250 million in funding for broadband
HB 320 was passed by the Kentucky General Assembly yesterday and is now headed to Governor Beshear’s desk for signature.
March 12, 2021
2021 General Assembly Week 6 update
Five working days remain in the 2021 regular legislative session and we need your help to get many county priority bills across the finish line.
March 12, 2021
What we know about the new federal COVID relief package
On March 11, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law, which includes direct aid to Kentucky counties.
March 11, 2021
Bill Patrick enjoying retirement after 40 years of service
Patrick capped successful career as executive director of the Kentucky County Attorneys Association for 12 years.