ky capitolToday is the start of the 2014 Kentucky General Assembly. There are already news stories and reports about what will/will not happen during the legislative session. There is talk about the budget. There is talk about gaming. And there is talk about a whole host of other things.

But as the 2014 General Assembly begins, we want you to know that YOU can make a difference for kids this session. Legislators listen to their constituents, and your voice is important. You can be the difference in the Child Care Assistance Program being restored. You can be the difference in ensuring kinship caregivers have the supports they need as they step up to care for kin children. You can be the difference in ensuring pregnant moms are protected from the dangers of secondhand smoke in their workplaces.

You can be the difference in making sure every child has the chance to be safe, healthy, and secure.

It starts today, and it starts with you. Here are ways you can be a voice for kids during this legislative session:

  • Check Kentucky Youth Advocates Ways to Act page throughout the session for specific actions you can take on behalf of Kentucky kids: http://kyyouth.org/waystoact/.
  • Make sure you are signed up to receive email alerts and actions alerts from Kentucky Youth Advocates. You can sign up here.
  • Learn about issues impacting Kentucky kids at www.blueprintky.org
  • Attend Children’s Advocacy Day on January 16. Register here.
  • Make sure you know who your legislators are. Click here to find your state legislators on the Kentucky’s Legislative Research Commission website or call toll free 1-800-372-7181. You can also find your elected officials including your Congressional delegates and learn about upcoming elections by using the following resources:

Senator/Representative
Legislative Offices
701 Capitol Ave.
Frankfort, KY 40601

You can make a difference for kids in 2014 with simple actions. Let’s get this session started and make it a positive session for kids.