Kentucky has seen a busy stretch of news and policy activity entering July. Among the state’s top headlines this week is the General Assembly’s final push of its 2025 legislative session, which wrapped up after intense negotiations and a flurry of bill passage. Lawmakers addressed high-profile issues from reducing the age for learner’s driving permits to updating regulations on college athlete endorsements and tackling topics such as maternal health, Medicaid, transgender-related services, and environmental regulations. Governor Andy Beshear issued more than two dozen vetoes, but the legislature overrode nearly all of them, further cementing the body’s independence. Several other bills, including Senate Bill 181 aimed at enhancing school communication transparency and House Bill 160 on manufactured housing zoning, await the governor’s decision after being sent to his desk in the session’s closing days. The General Assembly now shifts to its interim period, with committee hearings and public input encouraged throughout the coming months as preparations begin for the 2026 session, according to the legislative news office.In government and politics, energy policy remains a top issue. State senators are monitoring potential federal repeals of strict coal emissions regulations. They argue that such changes could restore state authority over energy decisions and provide cost savings, especially for manufacturing and agriculture, as outlined by Senator Jimmy Higdon’s recent legislative update. This comes on the heels of the Supreme Court’s decision to limit federal regulatory power in sweeping energy transitions. Lawmakers urge Kentuckians to stay engaged and follow legislative developments via official channels and livestreams.On the business and economic front, Kentucky continues to build momentum with substantial site and infrastructure investments. Governor Beshear recently announced over $7 million in funding through the Kentucky Product Development Initiative for six counties, including Boyle, Hopkins, Laurel, Montgomery, Pulaski, and Taylor. These funds are earmarked for ready-to-develop industrial sites and infrastructure projects intended to attract new businesses and drive job growth. Danville, for example, has secured funding to extend infrastructure in its industrial park, opening 89 additional acres for potential employers. Kentucky has garnered nationwide recognition for its economic development efforts, ranking in the top five nationally for projects per capita, and the state saw more than 2 million jobs filled for the first time in its history in 2023. Ratings agencies like Fitch, S&P, and Moody’s have all upgraded Kentucky’s financial outlook amid record budget surpluses.Northern Kentucky, in particular, is experiencing notable business wins. Whitehorse Freight expanded with a $5.4 million project in Crestview Hills, adding 400 jobs, while Bakery Express Midwest and Chick-fil-A Supply have made significant investments. Manufacturing and supply chain sectors are highlighted as leading job creators. The Greater Cincinnati region, including Northern Kentucky, now counts its highest manufacturing employment since 2007, and projections show continued employment growth through the decade.On the community and education beat, a major development arose with the release of an audit of the Kentucky Department of Education. Auditor of Public Accounts Allison Ball’s report revealed $250 million in unused education funds, criticisms of diversity and inclusion initiatives, and gaps in special education and preschool funding—prompting commitments from Governor Beshear and education officials to address the inefficiencies and improve outcomes. Meanwhile, Kentucky has been selected as one of only five states to participate in the new Middle School Career Impact and Learning Network, supporting innovative career exploration programming for young students through a national grant.Infrastructure is also advancing, with state funds directed toward new roadways and industrial park expansions. These efforts are designed to ensure communities remain competitive and equipped for continued growth.While recent weeks have not brought any major weather emergencies to Kentucky, the state remains vigilant during the summer storm season, and local officials continue to update safety and preparedness plans as needed.Looking ahead, listeners can expect ongoing debates on state-funded initiatives, continued investment announcements, and possible legislative action on education, energy, and economic policies. Kentucky’s interim legislative session will feature public committee hearings, and several large-scale business and infrastructure projects are expected to break ground before the year’s end.Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.Some great Deals https://amzn.to/49SJ3QsFor more check out http://...
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