Lawmakers in the Kentucky House of Representatives have approved a bill that would provide emergency response pay for members of the Kentucky National Guard when they are deployed during disasters.
House Bill 364 would allow Guard members to receive hazard pay when they are called to active duty after the governor declares a state of emergency in Kentucky.
The legislation was introduced by Steve Bratcher, a Republican lawmaker from Elizabethtown, Kentucky.
Under the proposal, Guard members could receive emergency response pay during the first 72 hours after activation, with the possibility of extended pay if the response lasts longer.
Supporters say the first few days of emergency response often involve hazardous conditions as Guard members assist with rescues, secure critical infrastructure, distribute supplies and support local first responders.
Bratcher said Guard members frequently leave their families and civilian jobs behind to respond to disasters across the state, making additional compensation important.
The bill now heads to the Kentucky Senate for further consideration.