New Kentucky state laws in effect

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A wave of new legislation is now in effect across Kentucky, following the General Assembly’s passage of more than 140 bills during this year’s 30-day session.

Most of the new laws went into effect Friday, covering a wide range of issues from criminal justice to consumer protection.

Key measures now in effect include:

• Sexual extortion laws, strengthening penalties for those who threaten to share intimate images to coerce victims.

• Squatting legislation, giving property owners more tools to remove unlawful occupants.

• New rules on drone surveillance, addressing privacy and property concerns.

• Restrictions on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs at public universities.

• Updates to workplace safety laws, aimed at better protecting employees.

• Measures to combat gift card scams, which have been increasingly used in financial fraud.

Lawmakers say these changes are part of broader efforts to address public safety, privacy, and accountability across the Commonwealth.