FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is honoring Sen. Julie Raque Adams with its prestigious “100 Proof Award” for her bold leadership in championing landmark legislation in the 2025 session to protect Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.
Sen. Raque Adams, R-Louisville, was the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 202, which established a basic set of standards for the state to regulate THC-infused intoxicating beverages as it does alcohol. The category has largely avoided regulation since it was created in 2018 from a loophole in the federal Farm Bill.
KDA President Eric Gregory praised Sen. Adams’ diligence and dedication. “Sen. Adams’ outstanding leadership has provided a balanced, thoughtful and comprehensive framework to regulating this new category of intoxicating beverages, which has become a model for other states.
“Senate Bill 202 ensures Kentucky leads with responsibility, transparency and parity for these new producers of intoxicating beverages. On behalf of our members, we’re honored to present Sen. Adams with this award and thank her for her tireless efforts to strengthen oversight in this evolving space.”
The KDA created the “100 Proof Award” in 2009 to recognize elected officials who exhibit exceptional care, diligence and initiative in promoting and protecting Kentucky Bourbon. Nominees must receive a unanimous vote from the KDA’s Governmental Affairs Advisory Group and the KDA Board of Directors.
It is the highest honor bestowed by the state’s iconic Bourbon industry on elected officials.
KDA officials will present Sen. Adams with a commemorative barrel head in Frankfort in the coming weeks.
Previous recipients of the non-partisan award include U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, Gov. Andy Beshear, Senate President Robert Stivers, House Speaker David Osborne, Rep. Susan Westrom, Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer and more.
For a complete list, visit https://kybourbon.com/industry/advocacy/.
Bourbon is one of Kentucky’s most treasured signature industries, generating $10.6 billion in economic impact every year, supporting 24,000 workers with $2 billion in salaries and benefits, and pouring more than $370 million into local and state taxes.
Bourbon also plays a vital role in the state’s tourism efforts through the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure, attracting nearly 3 million visitors from all over the globe every year to this bucket-list phenomenon.
Visit www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com to learn more.
