Committee approves bill to expand PGA HOPE access for veterans at state facilities

The House Standing Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection passed House Bill 436, a measure to authorize Kentucky veterans who complete the PGA HOPE program to receive reduced access at state golf courses and parks.

Representative Tom Smith, sponsor of HB436, said the national PGA HOPE program has served more than 65,000 veterans since 2015 with 624 locations and that completing the 6–8 week program would make veterans eligible for a card permitting play at state facilities for a reduced fee (typically the cart fee). Smith described costs as modest — "anywhere from $15 to $25.30 per player" — and asked the committee to support the program.

Committee members moved and seconded the bill, then voted by roll call; Chair McCool announced HB436 passed with favorable expression and will proceed to the House floor.