summary
Introduced
01/08/2026
01/08/2026
In Committee
01/15/2026
01/15/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Create new sections of KRS Chapter 216B to allow certain hospitals licensed under that chapter to establish hospital police departments; provide each hospital police officer with full general police powers, including the power to arrest, in performing his or her duties; specify the qualifications each officer shall have at the time of his or her employment; provide for the appointment or promotion to the ranks and grades of the department; prohibit persons from falsely representing themselves to be an officer; establish a citizen complaint and investigation process for complaints against an officer alleging misconduct.
AI Summary
This bill allows hospitals licensed under Kentucky law to establish their own police departments and appoint hospital police officers who will have general police powers, including the authority to arrest individuals who commit crimes or misdemeanors within their view, and to enforce hospital rules and protect persons and property on hospital grounds. These officers must meet specific qualifications, including state certification, and will have the power to conduct investigations related to criminal offenses on hospital property, coordinating with other law enforcement agencies when necessary. The bill also outlines procedures for appointing officers to different ranks, prohibits individuals from falsely impersonating hospital police officers, and establishes a process for handling citizen complaints of misconduct, including requirements for sworn affidavits and due process rights for officers facing disciplinary action, such as the right to a hearing and legal representation. Importantly, this bill does not diminish the authority of existing city, county, or state law enforcement agencies.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
to Judiciary (H) (on 01/15/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb248.html |
| BillText | https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/recorddocuments/bill/26RS/hb248/orig_bill.pdf |
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