02 Apr Guest Post: A Final Push to Protect Kids with Kyan’s Law

By Kiera Dunk
This blog was originally published on Kentucky Youth Advocates
 As many people focus on the headlines coming out of the federal government, they often overlook what is happening at the state level. While the state government has a direct impact on our daily lives, people have more power than they realize to influence it.

Two years ago, I started this journey with Kyan’s Law, sharing his story and hoping to bring him justice while preventing other deaths like his.

Currently, that means in Kentucky supporting House Bill 246, also known as Kyan’s Law. Kyan’s Law provides training for animal control officers to recognize the connection between animal abuse and child abuse.

This connection is well documented, with a recent study finding that whenever animal abuse is present, the likelihood of child abuse increases by 641%. Louisville Metro already uses a similar training; in 2024, their animal control officers reported 41 cases of suspected child abuse, with 14% facing criminal charges. 

Early intervention can help protect vulnerable children from dangerous situations. This bill is not only necessary, but has the potential to save lives, ensuring that no child falls through the cracks, because adults now have the tools and training to recognize and report abuse.

During the 2026 legislative session, with Representative Susan Witten’s leadership, Kyan’s Law has made significant progress. It passed out of committee and was approved on the House floor. It is now in the Senate, currently sitting in the Committee on Committees.

However, this is often where bills can stall. Some people worry this bill will create liability for animal control officers. The reality is, everyone in Kentucky is already a mandated reporter and this legislation gives these professionals the tools they need to fulfill that duty. To address these concerns, a committee substitute was added stating that officers will not be held liable and allowing counties to opt out of the training. I am hopeful that the Senate will act soon on Kyan’s Law.

This continued delay of action by the legislature makes me think: are Kentucky’s at-risk children going to have to wait another year until this bill is politically convenient to support, while children die? I understand that, as with any bill, multiple attempts may be necessary, as our system is often slow to ensure good policy is implemented. With so much support, there is no reason Kyan’s Law should be stalled due to non issues caused by misinformation or neglect.

If you want to help, contact your state Senator and urge them to support Kyan’s Law (HB 246) and push for it to be assigned to a committee. Advocacy at this stage can make the difference between a bill passing or failing. You can also email your state Representative and Senator to urge their support.

The legislative process in Frankfort can be slow, but that is exactly why public engagement matters. If enough people speak up, this bill can move forward and help prevent abuse before it’s too late.

Kyan deserves justice, and Kentucky’s children deserve protection.

Track the progress of HB 246 on KYA’s Bill Tracker. 

Kiera Dunk received a Champion for Children award at the 2024 Rally for Kentucky Kids during Children’s Advocacy Day at the Capitol

Kiera Dunk is a 11th grade student from Oldham County.