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Economic Development

​​​​Kentucky’s DEP Small Business Ombudsman (SBO) serves as an advocate for small business owners or operators within the regulatory environment. The SBO provides ongoing support to small businesses within the Commonwealth of Kentucky to improve understanding and compliance with environmental regulations.
The SBO’s key responsibilities may include:

  • Review state and federal regulations for applicability and impact to small businesses.

  • Ensure small business interests are represented during the legislative rulemaking process.

  • Provide support including outreach activities, training and resources to inform small business of regulatory issues and changes.

  • Respond to environmental and regulatory questions or refer small businesses to the appropriate specialists for help with specific needs.

  • Serve as a neutral resource to facilitate fair, equitable and ​expeditious conflict resolution between the Energy and Environmental Cabinet (EEC) and small businesses across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

If you have questions, concerns or need additional information, please contact Kari Johnson at 502-782-6989 or Kari.Johnson@ky.gov

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet
300 Sower Blvd
Frankfort, KY 40601    

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Civil Rights/Derecho Civiles

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability or sex. This policy protects the rights of Cabinet employees, service applicants and customers. Vendors, agencies and organizations providing services to the Cabinet or its recipients of federally-aided programs also must comply with this policy.