December 12, 2025

Insurance Initiatives Set to Strengthen Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky, December 12, 2025

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America recently held its Annual Convention in Louisville to discuss key insurance initiatives designed to strengthen Kentucky’s economy. Important programs highlighted include the Strengthen Kentucky Homes initiative, which provides grants for Fortified roofs, ongoing reductions in workers’ compensation rates, and necessary reforms to Personal Injury Protection (PIP). These efforts aim to enhance coverage options and educate homeowners and businesses about available benefits.

Insurance Initiatives Set to Strengthen Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky – The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) recently held its 2025 Annual Convention in Louisville, focusing on key insurance initiatives ahead of the 2026 General Assembly session. The convention highlighted three main areas: the Strengthen Kentucky Homes program, workers’ compensation rate reductions, and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) reform.

Strengthen Kentucky Homes Program

Insurance Commissioner Sharon Clark provided an update on the Strengthen Kentucky Homes program, a $5 million initiative passed in the 2024 legislative session. Set to launch on January 1, 2026, the program offers grants for homeowners to install Fortified roofs, designed to withstand damage from hurricanes, wind, and hail. Insurers are required to provide actuarially justified discounts and endorsements to policyholders participating in the program. Insurance agents are expected to play a crucial role in educating clients and local roofing contractors about the program’s benefits.

Workers’ Compensation Rate Reductions

Scott Wilhoit, Commissioner of Workers Claims, announced a ninth consecutive year of declining workers’ compensation insurance rates. The department is also introducing electronic systems to streamline Form 4 checks and verify exemptions more efficiently, aiming to reduce paperwork for agents and improve operational efficiency. This continuous decline in rates is a positive trend for both businesses and employees, fostering a more competitive economic environment in Kentucky.

PIP Reform

A legislative panel discussed PIP reform, with support for applying the workers’ compensation fee schedule to medical bills under the PIP system. Although the reform passed the State House, it stalled in the State Senate. The Big “I” plans to advocate for the bill in the upcoming 2026 session to address the challenges in Kentucky’s auto insurance personal injury protection system. These reforms are essential for improving the efficiency and fairness of the insurance landscape in Kentucky, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

Conclusion

As the 2026 General Assembly session approaches, these initiatives underscore the insurance industry’s proactive efforts to address challenges and enhance coverage options for Kentuckians. Local entrepreneurs and insurance agents are positioned to leverage these updates to educate homeowners and business owners, fostering resilience and growth within the community. Engaging with local businesses and staying informed about these changes will help contribute to a thriving Kentucky economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Strengthen Kentucky Homes program?

The Strengthen Kentucky Homes program is a $5 million initiative passed in the 2024 legislative session, offering grants for homeowners to install Fortified roofs designed to withstand damage from hurricanes, wind, and hail. The program is set to launch on January 1, 2026.

How are workers’ compensation insurance rates changing in Kentucky?

Workers’ compensation insurance rates in Kentucky are set to decrease for the ninth consecutive year. The Department of Workers Claims is also implementing electronic systems to streamline processes and reduce paperwork for agents.

What is the status of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) reform in Kentucky?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) reform legislation passed the State House but stalled in the State Senate. The Big “I” plans to advocate for the bill in the upcoming 2026 session to address challenges in Kentucky’s auto insurance personal injury protection system.

Key Features of the Insurance Initiatives

Initiative	Description	Launch Date	Impact
Strengthen Kentucky Homes Program	Offers grants for homeowners to install Fortified roofs designed to withstand damage from hurricanes, wind, and hail.	January 1, 2026	Enhances home resilience against severe weather events.
Workers’ Compensation Rate Reductions	Announces a ninth consecutive year of declining workers’ compensation insurance rates and introduces electronic systems to streamline processes.	Ongoing	Reduces insurance costs for businesses and improves operational efficiency.
PIP Reform	Seeks to apply the workers’ compensation fee schedule to medical bills under the PIP system to address challenges in Kentucky’s auto insurance personal injury protection system.	Upcoming 2026 Session	Aims to improve the efficiency and fairness of the PIP system.