Governor Beshear prioritizes education, healthcare, and more in State of the Commonwealth address

In his first State of the Commonwealth address after being sworn in for a second term, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reflected on Kentucky’s challenges and progress throughout his first term while also laying out his priorities for the 2024 legislative session.

The governor thanked the legislature for some of the bills they have passed in recent years and said it has helped bring new investments. He pointed to BlueOval SK, the Ford EV battery plant in Hardin County which he said has already hired 400 Kentuckians and expects to add 2,000 more.

In the speech, he highlighted many of the points made in his recent budget address including an 11% raise for Kentucky teachers, funding for universal pre-K, investments for infrastructure, and more.

Beshear also used the speech to highlight progress and opportunities in healthcare and mental health services, combatting the opioid epidemic, and the need for more funding for public safety.

“To me, improving life right here at home is the most important focus that we can have. And these next four years are our chance – Kentucky’s chance – to be the difference, to be both an economic and a moral leader of this country,” Beshear said, adding now is the time to push division aside.

Watch the full speech here. Find the full text of the speech here.

Stay tuned to The Bottom Line for more updates throughout the 2024 legislative session.