The House of Representatives had an exceptional first week of work on behalf of our Commonwealth.

It always motivates me to know my work in Frankfort will be done on behalf of the people of Clark and Madison counties.

When the people in my district gave me the honor of returning to the General Assembly, I made a commitment to my constituents to do everything in my power to do what I have always tried to do, which is support job growth, promote policies that grow and expand the middle class and continue my support for pro-life legislation.

I am happy to tell you we have gotten off to a great start.

In week one of this 30-day session, I supported House Bill 1 that made Kentucky a right-to-work state. I also backed HB 2 that protected the unborn child and HB 3 that eliminated the tax dollar wasting policy that was prevailing wage.

The new majority you elected last fall is now a working majority and I could not be happier with what we have accomplished so far.

I believe it is important I share with you my committee assignments. For the 2017 legislative session, I have been assigned by Speaker of the House Jeff Hoover to the Transportation Committee and the Appropriations and Revenue Committee. I am especially honored to be named the vice-chair of the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee, and to be named chairperson of the Enrollment Committee. 

These assignments provide an enormous responsibility, but also an opportunity to oversee large-scale change to help Kentucky. 

All of my efforts in Frankfort will be to see that these committees serve the people amicably by studying every matter that comes before us with tremendous effort and thoroughness.

After the first week of session, the schedule requires us to leave for a three-week break. Before we left, I introduced HB 74. House Bill 74 will prohibit any vehicle that is not designated to handle emergencies, such as law enforcement vehicles, from installing or using blue lights on vehicles. My hope is this bill will allow law enforcement to more successfully fulfill their duties.

I want to make Kentucky all it can be. This can only happen if we create an economy that can match and compete with our neighbors. We must open Kentucky for business again. An environment needs to be in place where business leaders throughout the country see Kentucky as the best place for them to set up shop. 

We also understand that making Kentucky all it can be is not just about dollars and cents. We have to respect life, fight for our workers, stand with law enforcement, protect our rights and uphold the constitution. We have to fight for each other and create opportunities for every Kentuckian to succeed.

I welcome your comments and concerns on any issues impacting our Commonwealth during the 2017 Regular Session. 

I can be reached through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181, or you can contact me via e-mail at Donna.Mayfield@lrc.ky.gov.

You can keep track of committee meetings and potential legislation through the Kentucky Legislature home page at www.lrc.ky.gov.

Donna Mayfield, R-Winchester, is a state representative representing Clark County.