FRANKFORT, Ky (Aug. 6, 2026) — The following is a statement from Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, regarding the governor’s executive order on data centers today.
“It’s about time the governor came around to the legislature’s way of thinking. His executive order largely echoes the same principles I outlined in my recent opinion piece: if data centers require new infrastructure, the developers, not Kentucky ratepayers, should bear the cost.
“If we’re going to establish a lasting framework for data centers, it should be done the right way, through the legislative process, with input from all involved parties. That’s how you produce sound policy that protects ratepayers, respects communities and provides certainty for businesses investing in Kentucky.”
“Unlike an executive order issued for headlines, the General Assembly is taking a deliberate approach. We’re coordinating with our federal delegation, including Congressman Brett Guthrie, to ensure Kentucky’s policies complement, not conflict, with federal efforts.
“While the governor has finally embraced the right premise, this is more political theater than public policy. The governor should spend more time in Kentucky than in South Carolina or New Hampshire where he’s obviously been more focused on improving his feeble presidential ambitions.
“I would like to thank the governor for drawing attention to where we have been all along.”
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Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, represents the 25th Senate District, including Clay, Jackson, Knox, McCreary, Owsley, and Whitley Counties. Stivers has served as Kentucky Senate president for over a decade. He first assumed the position in 2013, succeeding former Senate President David Williams. As the Senate President, he is co-chair of the Legislative Research Commission. Stivers is also a member of the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary.
Please visit Legislature.ky.gov for information on Senate Majority Caucus members, legislative committees and additional resources, including legislation enacted during the 2026 Legislative Session.
Lawmakers returned to Frankfort in June to start the 2026 Interim. During this period, committees will meet to study policy issues, review implementation of recently passed legislation and begin evaluating proposals for the 2027 30-day session, which begins Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027.
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