FRANKFORT, Kentucky (May 27, 2025) – Representative John Blanton of Salyersville has been appointed by House Speaker David Osborne to serve as a member of the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force.
As not only a former law enforcement officer, but as a neighbor I have seen the devastation these disasters cause too often,” said Representative Blanton. “Even when the skies have cleared and creeks have settled, our communities are left behind scattered to pick up the pieces. I am grateful to have been appointed by Speaker Osborne to serve as a member of this task force, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure our commonwealth is effectively prepared for both prevention and recovery.”
The task force was created following the passage of Senate Concurrent Resolution 67 during this past regular session.
“In recent years, Kentucky has endured devastating floods, tornadoes, and other natural disasters that have tested the strength and resilience of our communities,” said Majority Caucus Chair Suzanne Miles. “The work of the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force is essential to helping us better prepare for future emergencies, protect lives, and support long-term recovery. I deeply appreciate Representative Blanton for stepping up to serve on this task force. His voice will be invaluable in shaping smart, proactive policy that safeguards Kentuckians and strengthens our ability to respond when it matters most.”
The Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force will study and assess current and future policy needs aimed at strengthening Kentucky’s ability to prepare
for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters. This work will include a thorough review of statewide risk assessment practices, strategic planning efforts, and disaster prevention measures.
The Task Force will also examine emergency response systems, the availability and coordination of temporary housing, and long-term relief strategies to ensure that communities across the commonwealth are equipped to withstand and recover from crises.
“We remain committed to making sure we can respond to disasters quickly, effectively, and efficiently,” said Speaker Osborne. “I appreciate Representative Blanton’s willingness to serve on this task force and look forward to the opportunities he and other members identify. Whether through interim committees or formal task forces like this one, we continue to use our interim to address the challenges facing our Commonwealth. The work we put in today helps position us to create policies that help Kentucky and Kentuckians succeed when we convene the 2026 Regular Session in January.”
Through its recommendations, the Task Force will support the development of a more resilient, proactive, and coordinated approach to disaster management in Kentucky—protecting lives, property, and the future stability of our communities.
Representative Blanton represents Kentucky’s 92nd House district which includes Knott and Magoffin counties as well as part of Pike County. In addition to serving on the task force, Blanton will also serve as co-chair of the interim joint committee on Transportation as well as a member of the interim joint committees on Judiciary; Natural Resources and Energy; and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection.
For more information on the legislative interim or Representative Blanton, please visit legislature.ky.gov.
