AGP Executive Report

Gas Tax Relief in Kentucky: Gov. Andy Beshear extended a 10-cent gas tax cut for 33 Kentucky cities and counties through June 30, warning areas that didn’t request the extension will see prices jump 10 cents starting June 11. State Budget Pressure: Lawmakers also debated the road-funding hit from the break, with transportation officials estimating Road Fund revenue losses around $26.8 million per month. KSU Enrollment Crunch: Kentucky State University expects a 20% drop in undergrads by spring 2027 as tougher academic/financial requirements kick in and some programs are cut. UK HealthCare Contract: Kentucky lawmakers approved a $125 million Deloitte consulting contract through 2028 for UK HealthCare, amid spending and cybersecurity scrutiny. Prepaid Energy Market: Four large prepaid energy bond deals priced recently, signaling strong demand in Kentucky’s municipal finance corner. Kids Count: Kentucky ranked 36th for child and family well-being, with poverty improving but education and health metrics slipping. Community Safety Training: Hope Harbor will host free Green Dot bystander intervention training in Bowling Green June 11.

Data Center Fight in Kentucky: A Lexington group, “No Kentucky Data Centers,” met to plan opposition after DartPoints bought the former Lexmark data center on New Circle Road, warning about electricity costs and corporate accountability tied to the AI boom. Local Moratoriums Spread: Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen said his county is among those considering pauses or zoning limits as residents push back on hyperscale projects, while other communities weigh similar steps. Frankfort Transparency Under Pressure: A new commentary argues Kentucky’s open records protections are eroding through HB 520 limits and a Kentucky Supreme Court ruling that narrows what counts as a public record. Education Budget Stress: Fayette County Public Schools plans to use contingency funds to cover remaining 2025-26 bills and payroll as it works to restate budgets after years of misreporting. Business & Courts: A Louisville Business First report says TKC Distilling Co., linked to The Kentucky Castle, faces $1.5M in lawsuits over alleged unpaid design and consulting bills. Sports & Community: Kentucky mourns defensive lineman Nic Smith, 20, and KYTC reversed a proposed Dixie Highway “road diet,” sidelining lane changes after local pushback.

Frankfort Restaurant Incident: Frankfort Police defended their response after a viral social media post alleged inappropriate behavior by a man at Everything OK Restaurant on May 20, saying officers weren’t told about more serious claims circulating online. Local Arts & Tourism: Red Barn Summer Theatre opens its 58th season June 10 with the world premiere comedy “The German Tropics,” running through two weeks of performances in Frankfort. State Education Watch: Kentucky Kids Count reports the state ranks 36th, with education still a relative strength but reading and math proficiency slipping for students. Broadband Growth: Kinetic says it has passed 2 million fiber premises, including major expansion in the greater Lexington area. Water Planning: The Kentucky Water Utilities Advisory Committee meets June 26 in Frankfort (hybrid) to discuss regulation updates, funding opportunities, and emerging contaminants. Business in Frankfort: Nickel & Rye opened on Main Street with a ribbon-cutting June 1, aiming to be a budget-friendly community gathering spot. National Politics: Trump says there’s “no reason” to retrieve Iran’s enriched uranium, framing it as effectively “entombed,” while Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie continues to draw attention to U.S.-Israel military cooperation debates.

Iowa Politics: Gov. Andy Beshear campaigned in Des Moines to back Democratic nominee Rob Sand, arguing his own Kentucky wins prove Democrats can win in red-leaning states and that Iowa voters are ready for change. Local Business/Infrastructure: A Covington bookstore owner says the long Brent Spence Bridge project is crushing traffic and forcing a move, with ramp closures starting Sunday and continuing into next year. Frankfort Health Equity: The City of Frankfort and UK researchers held the Dr. Rosby Glover Unity in the Community event at First Baptist Church, offering free screenings and ongoing monthly meetings to tackle Alzheimer’s disparities. Data Center Rules: Murray planners advanced a draft ordinance to regulate data centers, with a public hearing set for Tuesday. Bourbon Industry: Larrikin Bourbon named Susanna Westerfield director of hospitality and brand engagement, aiming to grow bourbon tourism and consumer loyalty. National Politics: The Senate blocked extending the FISA Section 702 surveillance program, with Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul among Republicans voting to stop it. Sports: Golden Tempo capped the Triple Crown with a Belmont win, adding to Kentucky’s racing spotlight.

Coal and energy policy: President Trump used wartime authority to announce $700 million for “clean, beautiful coal,” including support for Kentucky-area coal plants and a new export terminal plan, renewing debate over costs and emissions. Middle East politics: The House and Senate are trading blows over war powers as Iran tensions keep escalating, with lawmakers pressing for limits while Trump signals he won’t be swayed. Kentucky education: Kentucky lawmakers got an update on statewide literacy gains, with officials pointing to the Read to Succeed Fund and recovery scorecards showing Kentucky near the top in reading progress. Workforce training: Logan County Schools is starting a $10.4 million expansion to its Career and Technical Center to add diesel and plumbing programs for fall 2027. Local business and jobs: Kentucky’s foster youth college aid tool is seeing more use, and officials say graduation rates are improving, though attendance and trauma challenges remain. Sports: Golden Tempo capped the Triple Crown season with a Belmont win, while Kentucky and Indiana’s high school all-star teams split results in Indianapolis.

Consumer Pressure: Retailers say shoppers are still spending, but they’re quietly cutting back—especially lower-income buyers—as gas and food costs keep climbing. Iowa Politics: Rob Sand, with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s backing, is set to rally as Democrats chase a possible Iowa flip. Inflation Debate: A new look at inflation argues it’s not just a “red vs. blue” story—gas and broader price pressures are hitting everywhere. Frankfort/Louisville History: A new historical marker honors Louisville civil rights leader Dr. P.O. Sweeney, unveiled June 6 at Cherokee Golf Course. National Security & Crypto: The Senate blocked a procedural move to extend FISA Section 702, with crypto-related concerns tied to a CBDC-related rider stuck in limbo. Local Stewardship: Volunteers in Paducah joined a riverfront cleanup to protect the Ohio River as summer activity ramps up. Kentucky Energy: Trump’s administration is pushing major federal funding into coal, including money flowing to plants in Kentucky. War Powers: The House passed a resolution to restrain Trump’s Iran war powers, with Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie among the GOP lawmakers backing it.

Coal Funding Push: The Trump administration is set to funnel nearly $700 million into U.S. coal, using a Cold War-era Defense Production Act to modernize 12 plants and back 13 existing ones, with Kentucky among the recipients, plus $75 million aimed at reopening a California export terminal. Local Data Center Debate: Bowling Green commissioners split 3-2 on a six-month moratorium on data center projects, with supporters citing utility-rate hikes and grid strain. Politics & Elections: A Politico look at RFK Jr.’s MAHA movement says it’s ducking key GOP battleground races, backing just one competitive House race so far. Courts: A Louisville judge issued an arrest warrant for former Gov. Matt Bevin after he missed a deadline to turn over financial records in a family court case. Health & Access: Planned Parenthood will offer “just in case” abortion pills in some clinics, expanding advance access. Community & Environment: A riverfront cleanup is planned in Paducah to protect Ohio River ecology. Sports & Culture: Kentucky’s Alltech launched Olerix to improve swine growth and feed efficiency; and free concert series are set across Louisville this summer.

Family Court Fallout: A Jefferson Family Court judge issued a new arrest warrant for former Gov. Matt Bevin after he failed to fully turn over financial records in a child support case. Bevin’s adopted son, Jonah, told reporters he felt like a “political puppet” during his father’s career and said the court holding Bevin accountable matters. War Powers Fight: The U.S. House voted down a resolution to force an end to Trump’s Iran war powers without Congress, with Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie among the Republicans backing the measure. Local Health Access: A medical cannabis dispensary opened in Bowling Green, aiming to cut travel for cardholders as Gov. Andy Beshear expands qualifying conditions. Data Center Tension: Pikeville signed a preliminary agreement to explore a potential data center at Kentucky Enterprise Industrial Park, while Lexington lawmakers push for more transparency as more facilities move in. Energy & Jobs: Kentucky Power and East Kentucky Power Cooperative are set to receive federal funding for upgrades at coal plants, as Trump’s coal push continues. Business/Environment: Kroger agreed to a $2.5M DOJ settlement over Clean Air Act emissions allegations tied to refrigerant leaks. Community Recovery: Knott County flood survivors began moving into Chestnut Ridge, a higher-ground neighborhood with 56 homes.

Court Deadline Fallout: Judge Angela Johnson ordered former Gov. Matt Bevin’s arrest after he missed a deadline to turn over financial records in a family court case, but Bevin avoided jail after turning over documents and seeking more time. Federal Surveillance Fight: The U.S. Senate blocked renewing a key warrantless intelligence program (Section 702), with Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul among those voting to stop the extension. Iran War Powers: The U.S. House passed a resolution requiring congressional approval for military action against Iran, with Kentucky’s Thomas Massie voting with Democrats. Data Center Costs in the Spotlight: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker paused new data center tax incentives and urged reforms, citing affordability and water impacts—an issue Kentucky leaders are also wrestling with as demand grows. Energy Push for Coal: The Trump administration announced $850M for coal plant upgrades and new capacity, including projects tied to Kentucky. Local Health Access: NatureMed opened Northern Kentucky’s second medical cannabis dispensary in Erlanger, expanding access under Kentucky’s qualifying-condition rules.

Frankfort & State Politics: Kentucky AG Russell Coleman joined a 16-state push to speed up federal review of death penalty cases, arguing Obama-era rules have created long delays. Local Government: Oldham County Fiscal Court approved a $67.9 million 2027 budget, with most spending tied to salaries and set amounts for public safety, parks, and roadway work. Elections & Courts: Former Gov. Matt Bevin was ordered to turn over financial records by Friday noon or face arrest and 60 days in jail in an ongoing family court dispute. Public Health & Families: Kentucky parents of children with severe autism demanded a “road map” for residential care, saying the state’s system leaves them stuck for years or forced to surrender custody. Business & Economy: Kentucky’s lobbying haul hit nearly $13.77 million in the 2026 session, up from 2024, with the Chamber of Commerce the top spender. Community & Culture: Lexington is gearing up for Railbird this weekend, expecting thousands and pointing to spillover for restaurants, tours, and museums. Environment & Growth: A new EPIC report says data centers could raise electric bills unless Kentucky adds stronger ratepayer protections before projects move forward.

War Powers Clash: The U.S. House voted 215-208 to direct President Trump to end the Iran war effort unless Congress approves further action, with Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie among four Republicans joining Democrats; Trump blasted the move as “meaningless” and “unpatriotic.” Local Courts & Costs: A new look at court fines and fees says rural communities get hit hardest, with missed payments triggering cascading penalties like license suspensions and repeated court involvement. Kentucky Driver Licensing Upgrade: All 35 Kentucky driver licensing branches closed June 4-5 for a system overhaul, with limited walk-in hours when they reopen June 8 and online services paused until the new myDrive portal launches. Opioid Funding Oversight: Trigg County approved a 12-member Opioid Abatement Advisory Committee to manage local opioid project funds, meeting quarterly starting in July. State University Investment: Kentucky State University’s transition under Senate Bill 185 is backed by about $170 million in public support from 2024-2028, including health sciences and asset preservation funding. Arts & Community: Actors Theatre of Louisville announced its 2026-27 season, mixing classics and new work plus community programs.

Federal Privacy Push: A House subcommittee held a hearing on the SECURE DATA Act, weighing how a federal privacy and data security law could work alongside Kentucky’s already-passed, consensus-based approach. Iran War Powers: The U.S. House voted 215-208 to force President Trump to end the Iran war unless Congress authorizes further action, with four Republicans—including Kentucky’s Thomas Massie—joining Democrats; the move is largely symbolic but signals growing GOP pushback. Kentucky Driver Services: Kentucky will close driver licensing regional offices June 4-5 for a new system rollout, with services resuming June 8 and a new myDrive portal for online requests. Local Community & Economy: A Hart County tourism update highlights regional attraction funding, while Elizabethtown’s Whiskey House of Kentucky announced 30% layoffs amid a bourbon/whiskey demand slump. Sports & Fundraisers: A Louisville youth sports trailer was stolen from Tom Sawyer Park, and a McLean County car-and-motorcycle show June 6 will raise money for SparKY animal rescue.

School Governance Fight: Fayette County Public Schools leaders are challenging Kentucky’s new law reshaping the Fayette County Board of Education, arguing Senate Bill 4 is unconstitutional and targets only their district, with a lawsuit seeking to block implementation. Agriculture Funding: Kentucky lawmakers approved major agriculture investments, including $20.9 million in general fund support for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture for FY 2026 and $5 million annually for the Agricultural Economic Development Board, plus additional tobacco settlement dollars for grants and loans. UK Research: University of Kentucky researchers won a $650,000 USDA grant to study how modern pig genetics are outpacing uterine capacity, a hidden bottleneck in modern swine production. Medical Cannabis Expansion: Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order expanding Kentucky’s medical marijuana qualifying conditions, adding 15 conditions and directing emergency regulations to clarify access. Privacy Policy Pushback: A privacy watchdog group says a proposed federal Secure Data Act would be worse than having no national data privacy law, urging lawmakers to reject it. Northern Kentucky Business: A teen entrepreneur in the region is turning freeze-dried candy into a growing operation, including a new partnership with Disney. Local Government: Covington’s Economic Development Authority canceled its June 4 meeting with no new date announced.

Data Centers & Energy Costs: Bowling Green rejected a six-month moratorium on data center development but approved new regulations after a long debate, as officials warned about grid capacity, water use, and ratepayer impacts. Gas Tax Freeze Fallout: Kentucky lawmakers grilled Transportation Cabinet officials on the 10-cent gas tax cut and July increase freeze, with critics saying the move could drain road funding while drivers see only modest savings. Judicial Branch Overhaul: Kentucky’s court system is reorganizing specialty, family/juvenile, and pretrial services under HB 504 to streamline supervision and align spending with new funding. College Sports NIL Push: Senators Cruz and Cantwell unveiled a bipartisan bill aimed at “restoring order” in college athletics compensation as NIL rules and transfer issues keep churning. Local Politics & Ballot Access: Kentucky AG randomly selected 12 counties for election integrity inquiry, and a Libertarian candidate secured enough signatures for the Nov. ballot in KY’s 4th District. Business & Jobs: Yum! Brands announced COO/Chief People & Culture Officer Tracy Skeans will retire later this year, and Louisville-based Source7 expanded its partnership with Lula for property maintenance workflows.

AI and Work: AMD CEO Lisa Su told MIT grads that AI can accelerate discovery, but humans must still choose which problems matter and take responsibility for outcomes. LGBTQ+ Climate in Kentucky: Out Leadership ranks Kentucky No. 35 for LGBTQ friendliness, noting national scores have declined for four straight years. Local History and Race: A Corbin expulsion presentation at the Laurel County African American Heritage Center revisited 1919-era racial violence and how the legal system responded. State Money Help: Kentucky State Treasurer’s Office brought its County Roadshow to Laurel County to help residents search for unclaimed property and file claims. Health Access in Rural KY: A UK-led study found nearly 60% of rural Kentucky people who inject drugs would use mobile syringe services, with demand highest among the most disadvantaged. Public Safety/Business: Railserve launched YardGUARD™, a railyard safety system aimed at reducing switch and derailment-related incidents. Economy at the Pump: A report highlights that easing pain at the pump could still mean more headaches on Kentucky roadways. Immigration Detention: A Sheboygan Falls mom returned home after ICE detention, but faces an uncertain legal future.

Reshoring Jobs: GE Appliances says it’s bringing back manufacturing to Louisville, aiming to start producing washer/dryer lines next spring and hire about 800 workers as part of a long domestic push. Fertilizer Costs: Kentucky farmers and national groups are pushing Congress to address fertilizer price spikes, with critics pointing to industry consolidation and markups rather than just supply issues. Road Funding Warning: A proposed extension of Kentucky’s temporary gas-tax cut could cost local governments roughly $27 million a month, threatening paving and bridge maintenance. Frankfort Watch: Lawmakers return for the 2026 interim period, with committee meetings and research work starting this week. Local Government & Safety: Florence leaders oppose a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet “road diet” on Dixie Highway, warning it could shift traffic into neighborhoods. Health & Business: Hardin County’s first licensed medical marijuana dispensary opens, while Meade County seeks a seasonal CDL driver for its solid waste center. Sports: Milan Momcilovic commits to Kentucky, and Evelyn Bliss qualifies for NCAA nationals in the javelin. Community: The Kuttawa Cannonball Run raises $86,000+ for local charities.