Kentucky House Majority Whip Recognized for Championing Business-Friendly Reforms

House Majority Whip Jason Nemes has been named one of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 MVPs, earning recognition for his leadership and strong advocacy on behalf of Kentucky’s business community. The award was presented on July 24 by Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts and Vice President of Policy Charles Aull.

The MVP Award celebrates legislators who “go to bat” for Kentucky’s economy—championing policies that improve business competitiveness, strengthen the workforce, and create a better climate for economic growth. According to the Chamber, Nemes stood out during the 2025 General Assembly for both his legislative leadership and his ability to work across the aisle to drive meaningful progress.

“House Majority Whip Nemes continues to be a strong advocate for Kentucky’s business community and a reliable leader on issues that drive economic growth,” said Watts. “His work aligning state and federal standards and his leadership in advancing tax reform demonstrate a clear commitment to creating a more competitive and business-friendly Kentucky. We are proud to recognize his efforts with this well-deserved MVP Award.”

Nemes played a key role as co-sponsor of House Bill 398, which updates Kentucky’s occupational safety and health standards to bring them into alignment with federal regulations. The bill, which also had strong bipartisan support, aims to streamline compliance for employers while maintaining essential safety protections for workers. Nemes was instrumental in shepherding the bill through the House and collaborating with Senate leaders and stakeholders to ensure its final passage.

In addition to his work on workplace safety, Nemes contributed significantly to advancing tax reform measures championed by House leadership. As part of the Republican caucus leadership team, he helped move forward legislation designed to reduce the personal income tax and improve the overall tax environment for employers. These changes are estimated to save Kentucky businesses over $1 billion—equating to roughly $629 per employer in the Commonwealth.

The Chamber noted that MVP recipients are chosen not only for voting in support of pro-business bills but for taking initiative, often navigating political challenges or contentious issues, to advance legislation that benefits employers and workers alike.

Nemes joins a distinguished list of legislative leaders who received the 2025 MVP Award, including Senate President Robert Stivers, House Speaker David Osborne, Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise, and House Majority Floor Leader Steven Rudy. These lawmakers were credited with pushing forward policies that reduce income taxes, modernize regulatory frameworks, and support workforce development—each of which plays a critical role in Kentucky’s long-term economic success.

The Chamber’s “Results for Business” publication provides a full accounting of the 2025 session and details on the impact of pro-growth policies that were enacted. Across the board, Chamber leaders praised legislators like Nemes who not only supported these efforts but actively worked to lead them.

With Kentucky continuing to make strides in business-friendly reform and economic development, lawmakers like Rep. Jason Nemes are being recognized for laying the groundwork that allows businesses to grow, invest, and succeed in the Commonwealth.