State legislators have made a preliminary choice for the new director of the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission.
The General Assembly has agreed to hire David A. Byerman as the next LRC director pending ratification of the full committee.
Byerman has had years of experience leading governmental organizations at the state and federal levels and served two terms as Nevada's Secretary of the Senate, the chamber's chief executive officer and parliamentarian, from 2010 to 2015. During that time, he was responsible for overseeing 90 session employees and managing a $21.5 million biennial budget.
Prior to serving as the NV Secretary of State, Byerman was executive assistant to former Nevada Gov. Bob Miller, and he was the president of a public relations firm that worked with clients like as MGM Mirage Casino.
He was also the U.S. Census Bureau's chief government liaison to Nevada from 1999-2000 and 2008-2010.
The GA reviewed more than 30 applications for the positions. Earlier this month, the search was narrowed down to about 10 candidates.
Byerman will fill the leadership role after former LRC director Robert Sherman resigned in fall of 2013 following an investigation into acclamations of sexual harassment involving legislators.
Senate President Robert Stivers and House Speaker Greg Stumbo will negotiate the terms of employment with Byerman.
The LRC director is responsible for overseeing the performance of nonpartisan staff employed by the General Assembly and for delivering professional services to legislators.
The annual salary range advertised to candidates was between $120,000 and $140,000. After negotiations, Byerman will earn an annual salary of $135,000.
He is expected to take the helm of LRC director next month.
