LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Changes could be on the way to how Louisville holds its elections and disciplines its police officers.
On Monday afternoon, the Kentucky Senate passed House Bill 388.
Among many things, it would make Louisville's mayoral and Metro Council elections non-partisan.
Republican Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, who represents part of Jefferson County, pushed back on that provision and ultimately voted against the bill.
"I think it kinda muddies the water of what we want our representatives to be able to be known for what they stand for," the senator said. "I'm a big fan of partisan races. I would love to see some other races move to partisanship because it's really hard for a voter to know who they're voting for, what they're voting for, what they stand for."
The bill would also change the process for Louisville Metro Police complaints, allowing accused officers to have a pre-disciplinary hearing.
Opponents said the bill takes away local control, but Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer argued the bill does fall within the scope of state lawmakers.
"Metro government was set up by state government," he said. "It was through a law that was passed through the General Assembly that was then advocated by then-mayor Jerry Abramson. So changes to that, when there's consensus brought, need to go through the General Assembly."
The House must approved the changes made to the bill before it can head to Gov. Andy Beshear's desk.
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