The League of Women Voters of Kentucky held one final rally on the last day of the session today to advocate for legislative transparency, which they say the lack thereof has kept Kentuckians from fully participating in the democratic process.

Today, I'm not here to celebrate civic engagement.

I'm here because too often the not Kentucky's legislative session is anything but open and accessible to the people it serves, especially its students.

For years, members of our team have made the trip to Frankfort.

But time and time again, we've been met with obstacles that make it nearly impossible for us to engage.

Committee agendas are posted nearly 24 hours before notice, and that's giving us little time to prepare.

Hearings are scheduled at 8 a.m., forcing students from across the state to wake up as early as 3 a.m..

I missed an entire new school and not even know if they're going to be able to speak at these sessions.

Even then, we often find out the decisions are made before we even get there and go for closed doors with little opportunity for public input.

Regarding transparency, the Sierra Club in Kentucky Conservation Committee recommends these two corrections a 24 hour freeze before voting be required for new language or amendments added to the third reading.

Number two is allowed pre filing appeals at any time before the upcoming session.

The legislative transparency we're talking about is what the league has carefully documented into reports.

It's the data that proves that we're safe.

One example in 1998, only 3% of House bills that became law use some sort of fast track maneuver.

That's right up to 37% in 2024.

In the Senate, just 2% of bills passed in 1998 used fast track maneuvers that jump to 23% in 2024.

No laws without us.

About us isn't just a slogan, it's a fundamental principle of democracy.

And when that principle is ignored, it's not just students who lose, but all Kentuckians.

To Kentucky legislators, I urge you, make the legislative process more transparent, make it more accessible, and listen to those that are directly affected by your decisions.

And to my fellow students.

Don't let these barriers stop you.

Keep showing up, keep testifying, and keep organizing.

Because this democracy doesn't just belong to those in office.

It belongs to us.

State lawmakers also voted on more measures late today, and we'll update you on those on Monday night's broadcast of Kentucky Edition.