Kentucky · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
SB 63: AN ACT relating to student journalist freedom.
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
SB 63 is a bill introduced in the Kentucky Senate on January 12, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: AN ACT relating to student journalist freedom. Primary sponsor: Gerald Neal (Democratic), Reggie Thomas (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (January 12, 2026): to Committee on Committees (S).
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Create a new section of KRS Chapter 158 to state legislative findings; define terms; establish additional free speech protections for student journalists; place limitations on additional protections; establish protections for student media advisors; require each local school board to adopt a written policy for time, place, and manner restrictions and for an appeals procedure; provide that student speech not be considered school speech; allow for a student journalist or student media advisor to seek injunctive relief; provide that the Act may be cited as the New Voices Act.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 2
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerald Neal | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 33 |
| Reggie Thomas | Primary sponsor | Democratic | Senate | 13 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- to Committee on Committees (S)
- introduced in Senate