Food For Thought
Kentucky’s 2026 legislative session begins January 6th and ends April 15th. While the session doesn’t have space for gallery viewing due to the remodeling of the capitol, there will be access via live stream (see article)
https://www.messenger-inquirer.com/breck_herald/news/state_national/stay-connected-to-the-general-assembly-during-the-2026-legislative-session/article_a24457b4-138f-5f75-9254-9fda9c1791b7.html
This year is a budget year, so the primary focus will be on completing that task. I will be interested to see what other topics will be discussed or what legislation may be passed during this session. Many Kentucky towns are still at odds over the current threat of incoming data centers, it will be especially important to follow these proceedings in order to see what new legislation may come about, and if the Artificial Intelligence Task Force Findings and Recommendations will have any impact. I have singled out some specific recommendations from Nancy Tate’s post about these findings.
Recommendation #4: Acknowledge that AI technology may be harmful to minors and consider legislative polices for the protection of minors on social media platforms.
Recommendation #5: Acknowledge that AI may impact careers regulated by professional standards, and consider legislative polices in coordination with professional standards boards to discuss when and how AI should be used within their profession.
Recommendation #8: Consider legislative policies for the location of data centers in Kentucky including minimum requirements for location and collaboration among local, state, and private entities.
Recommendation #9: Consider legislative polices for data centers' need for large amounts of water and power requiring more baseload power to ensure grid sufficiency, including consultation with the Public Service Commission.
The following is a direct quote from Nancy Tate’s official page……
“AI is rapidly becoming one of Kentucky’s defining industries, and I remain dedicated to keeping our Commonwealth at the forefront of innovation, education, and economic growth. As we head into the 2026 Regular Session, these insights and recommendations will play a critical role in shaping the policies that move Kentucky forward.”
It seems that no matter what the people want she wishes to continue to push AI and data centers. Clearly the task force has recognized the dangers surrounding AI and many of the possible challenges that come along with it. Social media is already demanding to much of our children’s lives, with the addition of AI videos and Chat GBT our young people will soon find themselves unable to distinguish the difference between real and fake. We will be putting writers, editors, journalists, graphic designers, etc. out of business if we don’t impose some type of intellectual property rights legislation. I would really like to know what the citizens think about AI and Data centers in general and what suggestions you might have for appropriate legislation. Please leave me an email through my contact page if you have general thoughts, questions, or concerns. Thanks for stopping by.
