The Gist
State Representative, 72nd District
Photo of Matthew R. Koch
Matthew R. KochOfficial portrait — Kentucky Legislative Research Commission

Matthew R. Koch

Candidate for State Representative, 72nd District

RepublicanIncumbent

Background

Occupation
Horse farmer
Lives in
Paris

State representative since 2019 for District 72 (Bourbon, Fleming and Nicholas counties) and chair of the House Licensing, Occupations and Administrative Regulations Committee. A self-employed horse farmer and former Marine Corps captain who was named Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Manager of the Year.

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Photo: Official portrait — Kentucky Legislative Research Commission

Documented positions

Taxes & budget

  • Sponsored bill for a 4% retail fee on alcohol salesIn office

    One of the primary sponsors of HB 9 (2026); floor amendments were filed on April 14, 2026, and it did not become law.

    HB 9 (2026 Regular Session): AN ACT relating to regulated substances and declaring an emergency.

    Government record · Kentucky General Assembly (Legislative Research Commission) · apps.legislature.ky.gov

    “impose a 4% state retail regulatory license fee on all alcoholic beverage and cannabis-infused beverage sales to consumers by alcoholic beverage retailers”
    Report

Economy & jobs

  • Sponsored law regulating fantasy contests and fixed-odds wageringIn office

    One of the primary sponsors of HB 904 (2026), the "Wagering Consumer Protection Act," which also raised the sports wagering age from 18 to 21. The governor vetoed it; the General Assembly overrode the veto (2026 Acts Chapter 184).

    HB 904 (2026 Regular Session): AN ACT relating to gaming.

    Government record · Kentucky General Assembly (Legislative Research Commission) · apps.legislature.ky.gov

    “require the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation to regulate the conduct of fantasy contest service providers”
    Report

Health & human services

  • Sponsored bill limiting fees for veterans' benefits helpIn office

    Lead sponsor of HB 508 (2026). It passed the House but was returned to the Senate Committee on Committees on April 14, 2026, and did not become law.

    HB 508 (2026 Regular Session): AN ACT relating to the protection of veterans' benefits.

    Government record · Kentucky General Assembly (Legislative Research Commission) · apps.legislature.ky.gov

    “limit the compensation for advising or assisting with veterans' benefits”
    Report

All sources (12)

Positions are summarized from the sources listed and are not inferred from party affiliation. Items marked “Provided by” were published by the candidate's verified campaign or party office under our campaign content standards. See something wrong? Use the Report link beside it, or contact us.