Parrett gets key committee assignments

Sen. Dennis Parrett, D-Elizabethtown, said the Senate committees he will be serving on for the next two years after assignments this week will enable him to advocate for the 10th District and let him be a stronger voice for his constituency.

He especially is pleased, he said, to be named to the Economic Development, Tourism and Labor Committee and re-appointed to the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee.

“As a member of the Economic Development, Tourism and Labor Committee, I will be helping set policy that promotes the standard of living and economic health for not just my district, but the entire commonwealth,” said Parrett, who represents Hardin County and a portion of Jefferson County. “I appreciate the responsibility we as committee members must accept as we try to move our state forward in this down-turned economy.

“We continue to be known for our superior horses and our beautiful bluegrass as well as many other attributes – many of which vary from region to region,” Parrett said, and expressed an interest in expanding tourism opportunities statewide.

His background in agriculture will be an asset on the tobacco oversight committee, he said. That committee oversees matters including diversification of farms and grant money available to farmers.

Along with these two assignments, Parrett has been reappointed to the Agriculture; Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Protection; and Banking and Insurance committees.

“My assignments are right in line for my district and for me personally,” Parrett said. “I have a deep appreciation for the military and all those men and women who serve or have served our country. I also have a great deal of respect for farmers and the agriculture community.”

The legislature convened Tuesday for a brief organizational session, which concludes Friday. Legislators return to Frankfort on Feb. 5 to continue the 2013 legislative session.