FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 13, 2005) – Governor Ernie Fletcher has appointed Christopher Lilly as commissioner of the Department of Public Protection (DPP). The department is an agency of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC).

Lilly, of Nicholasville, had been acting commissioner of the department since January and executive director of one of its agencies, the Office of Charitable Gaming, since the fall. Lilly came to the cabinet after 21 years as general counsel and chief legislative and policy analyst for the Republican Caucus of the Kentucky Senate.

“We are fortunate to have Chris Lilly, who brings a long record of demonstrated commitment to public service,” EPPC Secretary LaJuana S. Wilcher said. “The Department of Public Protection is one of the most diverse and challenging in this cabinet. Chris has done an admirable job as acting commissioner and I look forward to his service as commissioner.”

DPP oversees or supports 10 agencies, boards and commissions. In addition to Charitable Gaming, they are the Public Service Commission; Kentucky Horse Racing Authority; Office of Housing, Buildings and Construction; Office of Insurance; Office of Financial Institutions; Office of Alcohol Beverage Control; Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Authority; Board of Claims/Crime Victims Compensation Board; and the Board of Tax Appeals.

Lilly is a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, with a B.S. in political science and police administration. He earned a juris doctor degree from the University of Kentucky College of Law.