Bill > HB254

This bill amends Kentucky law to create strict restrictions and penalties for using tax dollars to influence public ballot questions or engage in lobbying activities. The bill establishes that local, state, and federal tax funds cannot be used to advocate for or against ballot measures, to lobby, or to participate in executive agency lobbying. Any citizen of Kentucky who believes this law has been violated can file a civil lawsuit within one year of the violation in specific circuit courts. If successful, the claimant can be awarded $250,000 per violation, with potential additional damages including punitive damages, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees. The bill also allows for class action lawsuits and creates a mechanism for multiple claimants to share damages. Furthermore, individuals found liable in civil court or criminally convicted for violating these provisions will be prohibited from holding public office or positions of public trust for ten years. The legislation classifies violations as a Class D felony, which carries criminal penalties, and explicitly waives sovereign, governmental, and qualified immunity for cases brought under this law. The bill aims to prevent the misuse of public funds for political or lobbying purposes and to create significant deterrents against such actions.