Kentucky House Bill 44: Advancing Robotics Education Across the Commonwealth
Legislative Update: HB 44 Update and Continued Advocacy Efforts
We are incredibly proud of the continued advocacy efforts of our students across Kentucky, especially our Student Board of Directors and FTC team 4444. Their voices are making a difference, and their work to highlight the impact of robotics programs is far from over.
While we were successful in advancing HB 44 through the House this session, there is still more work to be done. As we look ahead to the next legislative session, we will continue working to advance the bill through both chambers of the legislature. Our students will remain engaged in sharing their stories and helping educate leaders on the impact and importance of these programs.
We are grateful for the progress made this session and for the opportunity to continue building momentum.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Representative Chris Lewis for his tireless leadership and commitment to this effort. Through his support, $250,000 was included in the state budget to help strengthen robotics programs across Kentucky.
These funds will directly support teachers and help bridge gaps in access to tools and equipment, including manufacturing resources, so that more teams can fully participate in and benefit from the FIRST experience.
We are also grateful to the Commonwealth of Kentucky for its continued investment in students and STEM education.
Stay tuned for more updates as this work continues.
What HB44 Does
House Bill 44 would create a funding opportunity for Kentucky robotics programs through stipends and grants that support educator time and program costs tied to more technically intensive competitive robotics participation.
What the funding can be used for:
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Stipends for educators who coach or mentor robotics teams
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Competition registration fees
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Program materials and supplies
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Event and competition costs that schools or teams often struggle to fund
The focus of HB44 is on reducing financial barriers so that more students can participate in technically intensive robotics programs across KY.
Why this Matters
Many robotics programs depend on unpaid educator time and fundraising just to stay active. HB44 recognizes the time, effort, and resources required to run a competitive robotics team and creates a pathway for direct support to the people and programs doing the work.
This legislation has the potential to:
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Support sustainability for existing teams
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Make it easier for new teams to launch
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Expand access to robotics education statewide
Hear directly from Representative Lewis
A video from the Kentucky State Capitol highlighting the introduction of House Bill 44 and its focus on supporting competitive robotics programs across the Commonwealth.
More Information:
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