The Kentucky House just passed a massive two-year budget totaling over $151 BILLION in appropriations — that's a 21%+ spending jump from the previous cycle!
Yet some lawmakers are spinning it as a "freeze" or even a "cut" when you factor in inflation. How can a 21% increase be called stagnant?
I provide a breakdown of the funding sources in the video but for quick reference:
General Funds: Core state tax revenue (income, sales, etc.) — the main pot lawmakers directly control for priorities like education, health, and public safety.
Restricted Funds: Money collected by agencies (fees, tuition, licenses). Still state money but is still controlled by the Legislature.
Bond Funds: Borrowed money from issuing bonds, typically for big capital projects (roads, buildings) paid back over time.
Federal Funds: Grants and aid from Washington.
In this budget, the big totals come from stacking all these sources (General ~$31B executive branch focus, but overall appropriations balloon with restricted/federal/bond).
I dive deep into the full numbers, call out the spin, and share a few things I actually like about this proposal (yes, there are some wins).