Meet the 11 Kentucky Legislators Who Are Shaping the Future of Business in 2025

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2025 MVPs of the Kentucky General Assembly, recognizing 11 legislators who played pivotal roles in advancing pro-business legislation and enhancing the state’s economic environment. These individuals have made significant contributions to Kentucky’s business landscape, ensuring the Commonwealth remains competitive and fosters growth.

In a statement, Ashli Watts, president and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber, commended the MVPs for their dedication to passing laws that will benefit Kentucky’s workforce and improve the state’s business climate. “Through their efforts, we can confidently say our Commonwealth is heading in the right direction in terms of economic growth,” she said.

Among the honorees is Senate President Robert Stivers, who showcased exceptional leadership in supporting business-friendly bills and opposing harmful legislation for employers. His efforts included championing the reduction in personal income tax through House Bill 1 and pushing for greater flexibility in future reductions with House Bill 775. Stivers also sponsored Senate Bill 1, establishing the Kentucky Film Office, which is expected to be a key driver of economic development in the state’s film industry.

House Speaker David Osborne also earned recognition for his leadership in passing legislation crucial to Kentucky’s business growth. He played a critical role in pushing through House Bill 1, which reduced personal income tax, and House Bill 775, which gives the state more flexibility in managing future tax reductions. His ability to lead his caucus of 80 members was essential in ensuring these bills gained the support they needed.

Max Wise, serving in his first year as Senate Majority Floor Leader, was instrumental in advancing vital legislation through the committee process and on the Senate floor. As the leader of the Senate’s majority, his role in moving important bills forward was essential to the session’s success. In the House, Majority Floor Leader Steven Rudy mirrored this leadership, helping to pass critical business-focused bills and playing a key role in tax reform. Rudy was also the primary sponsor of House Bill 15, which allows 15-year-olds to apply for a driver’s permit earlier, offering a vital workforce development reform.

House Majority Whip Jason Nemes made his mark by co-sponsoring House Bill 398, which aligns Kentucky’s occupational safety and health standards with federal rules. This legislation ensures workplace safety while reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens, and Nemes’ leadership was crucial in seeing it through both the House and Senate.

Senator Julie Raque Adams was recognized for her work as the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 202, which created a regulatory framework for hemp-derived beverages. This bill applies strong public safety safeguards similar to those governing other intoxicating beverages, ensuring responsible production and sale. As the chair of the Senate Licensing & Occupations Committee, Adams ensured that numerous pro-business bills passed through her committee.

Representative Matthew Koch, who carried Senate Bill 202 in the House, worked alongside Adams to establish these regulations for hemp-derived beverages. The collaboration between the two legislators helped ensure that the bill was successfully passed in both chambers of the General Assembly.

Senator Chris McDaniel, the chair of the Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee, played a major role in passing House Bill 1, which reduces the state’s individual income tax from 4% to 3.5%. His leadership in securing bipartisan support for this significant tax reduction will save Kentuckians an estimated $718 million, beginning in 2026.

Representative Jason Petrie, chair of the House Appropriations and Revenue Committee, also contributed to this landmark tax reform by carrying the measure through the House. His ability to gain broad bipartisan backing ensured the passage of the income tax cut, which will have a lasting impact on Kentucky families.

Senator Craig Richardson and Representative Walker Thomas were both recognized for their leadership in advancing House Bill 398. Richardson led the bill on the Senate floor, while Thomas sponsored it in the House. Their combined efforts were crucial in ensuring Kentucky’s occupational safety and health regulations align with federal standards, helping to remove regulatory hurdles while maintaining worker safety.

The Kentucky Chamber’s recognition of these legislators highlights the importance of their work in building a better business environment in Kentucky. Their contributions are a testament to their commitment to improving the state’s economic health and ensuring its continued competitiveness.