AN ACT relating to the Kentucky National Guard.

Create a new section of KRS Chapter 38 to restrict the use of the Kentucky National Guard outside of state active duty unless Congress officially declares war or has taken official action pursuant to the Constitution of the United States and has satisfied any outstanding balance to the Kentucky National Guard; allow the Governor to deploy the National Guard under Title 32 of the United States Code to assist in border protection, for not more…

Introduced: January 7, 2026

Last action: January 14, 2026

To Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection (H)

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This bill, known as the Defend the Guard Act, would limit when the Kentucky National Guard can be deployed outside the state. Under this proposal, the Guard could not be sent on federal active duty unless Congress formally declares war or takes specific constitutional action. It also allows the Governor to send Guard members to help with border protection for up to 30 days when another state's governor has declared an invasion. Who it may affect: Kentucky National Guard members and their families.

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