Federal lawsuit challenges Kentucky law targeting Kentucky State University

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A new federal lawsuit is challenging a Kentucky law that makes major changes to Kentucky State University, with plaintiffs arguing the measure threatens the school's future.

The lawsuit, filed by a group that includes students and alumni, challenges Senate Bill 185. Plaintiffs argue the law violates federal civil rights protections and longstanding desegregation agreements tied to higher education in Kentucky.

According to the lawsuit, Kentucky State University was underfunded for years, and lawmakers are now using the school's financial struggles to justify sweeping changes.

SB 185 places Kentucky State University under increased state oversight and allows changes including faculty layoffs, restructuring and limits on academic programs.

Plaintiffs are asking a federal judge to issue an emergency order blocking those changes while the lawsuit moves through the court system.

The lawsuit also argues the law could jeopardize the university's accreditation and undermine its historic mission as Kentucky's only public HBCU.

Kentucky State University said in a statement it wasn't involved in filing the lawsuit and was unaware of the legal action beforehand.