Kentucky's state legislature wrapped up a busy session with key budget and policy advancements. The Senate passed its two-year budget plan, easing some House-proposed cuts by tapping the Budget Reserve Trust Fund and adding a 13th check for retirees without cost-of-living adjustments since 2011, according to the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy. It sends $5 million annually for school safety, $100 million in federal funds for nutrition programs, and maintains SEEK per-pupil funding while supporting dual credit and workforce programs, as reported by the Kentucky Chamber Bottom Line. House Bill 1, implementing a federal education opportunity program with school choice scholarships for private tuition and tutoring, overcame a gubernatorial veto and became law, per Legislative Research Commission records. Revenue measures in HB 757 advanced, updating income tax codes and imposing new taxes on fantasy contests and data brokering.
In business and economy, Governor Andy Beshear announced $750,000 in grants for innovative companies and highlighted Sumitomo Electric Wiring Systems' $17 million expansion in Simpson County, creating 76 jobs. The Kentucky Space Futures initiative launched to boost the state's space economy role, Lane Report notes. General Fund receipts for FY25 exceeded estimates at $15.7 billion.
Community efforts include $42 million in bonds for prison education via community colleges and up to $25 million per project for nuclear energy. Infrastructure proposals allocate $420 million for interstate pavement repairs and $900 million for bridges. A bill to reshape major school boards advanced in the House, WDRB reports.
Weather made headlines with record-breaking March heat in Louisville at 88 degrees on March 23, shattering a 119-year-old mark, followed by cooler mid-50s starts. Showers loom Thursday through Friday. Earlier, EF-1 tornadoes hit Hardin, Grayson, and Meade counties on March 15, and severe winds threatened March 22, per National Weather Service and IPRO ESRD.
A Democratic debate for Mitch McConnell's Senate seat underscored pushes for minimum wage hikes and homelessness solutions.
Looking Ahead: Watch final budget reconciliation, nuclear projects, Keeneland's record $10.85 million stakes season, and Truist Foundation grants for skilled trades training.
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