FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Office of State Budget Director reported today that General Fund receipts for fiscal year 2025 (FY25) totaled $15,703.2 million, exceeding FY24 total revenue by $131.9 million, or 0.8 percent. 

General Fund revenues exceeded the official revenue estimates by a nearly identical amount, $131.3 million.  The final budget surplus amount for FY25 will be known once the accounting records for expenditures are completed later this month.  Road Fund revenues totaled $1,863.5 million, 0.6 percent less than the FY24 total.  Compared to the official FY25 Road Fund estimate of $1,825.0 million, actual revenues exceeded the estimate by $38.5 million.

State Budget Director John Hicks stated, “Both funds produced revenues in excess of the enacted estimates.  Major business taxes far exceeded the official estimates offsetting lower than forecasted income and sales tax receipts.  Strength in business taxes demonstrates that Kentucky businesses are producing at a profitable level.  On the Road Fund ledger, the use tax paid on the sales price of new and used vehicles provided the collections needed to surpass the official estimate by $38.5 million.  Car and truck sales are evidence that Kentucky consumers are earning working wages sufficient to finance these purchases.”

Table 1 compares General Fund collections to the official estimates. 

Four accounts had differences that were within $10 million of the actual amounts.  Another four accounts had variations ranging from $125 million to $500 million.  The larger differences cancelled each other out so that, in total, General Fund estimates were within 1 percent of actual receipts

A summary of General Fund collections for FY25 and FY24 is shown in Table 2. For the year, receipts grew 0.8 percent, or $131.9 million over FY24 levels.  The accounts with significant changes were the individual income and the major business taxes.  Individual income tax revenues were $488.3 million less than what was collected last year while the major business tax collections exceeded FY24 receipts by $585.4 million.

Sales and Use Taxes:

Sales and use tax receipts were essentially unchanged from FY24 levels with growth of 0.3 percent.  Growth rates were modest in all four quarters with growth in the first and fourth quarters and declines in the two middle periods.  Growth rates for the quarters were 1.3 percent, -0.3 percent, -2.9 percent and 3.1 percent.

Individual Income Tax:

Individual income tax receipts experienced a sharp decline due to a drop in the tax rate as well as timing associated with the Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET).  Receipts for the year were $488.3 million less than FY24 collections.  The PTET created timing issues regarding payments and credits in FY24 and FY25.  The result is that substantial PTET credits from prior tax years were taken in FY25 and caused a significant reduction to individual income tax receipts for the fiscal year. Additionally, the tax rate for the individual income tax declined from 4.5 to 4.0 percent effective on January 1, 2024. This rate reduction led to lower collections in the first half of FY25 from July through December.  Among the accounts, withholding collections fell by 4.0 percent, declarations were down 23.6 percent and PTET revenue fell by 35.6 percent. The $5.3 billion in individual income tax receipts compares to $6.0 billion in FY22 when the tax rate was 5 percent.

Business Taxes:

Combined corporation income tax and the Limited Liability Entity Tax (LLET) collections grew 46.9 percent, or $585.4 million, compared to last year.  The $1.8 billion in receipts from these two accounts shattered the previous fiscal year record of $1.25 billion set in FY24.  The strong growth in FY25 can be attributed to estimated payments. Quarterly growth rates for the taxes were 73.5 percent, 79.3 percent, 124.4 percent and 9.6 percent. 

Coal Severance Taxes:

After temporarily rebounding in FY23, coal severance tax revenues returned to their long-term trend declining 19.4 percent in FY24 and 28.0 percent in FY25.  Receipts for the year were $56.1 million, $21.8 million less than what was collected last year. Quarterly growth rates for this account were -27.5 percent, 66.4 percent, -47.2 percent and -58.1 percent.

Tobacco Taxes:

Revenues from the cigarette tax declined for the fifth consecutive year in FY25, falling $26.9 million, or 9.9 percent.  Cigarette tax revenues declined in all four quarters.  The rates were -6.8 percent, -10.9 percent, -15.0 percent and -8.0 percent.   

Property Taxes:

Property tax receipts rose 3.9 percent in FY25 on the strength of motor vehicles and tangible property which combined to grow by $26.7 million.  Growth was strongest in the first and fourth quarters of the year.  Growth rates for the four quarters were 11.1 percent, 0.8 percent, 0.6 percent and 22.5 percent.

Lottery and Other Revenues:

Collections from the Kentucky Lottery Corporation that are deposited into the General Fund rose $7.1 million, or 2.1 percent for the year just ended.  The “other” category – which includes multiple taxes, fees, and nontax revenues – grew 2.2 percent in FY25.  Accounts such as investment income, inheritance taxes, and insurance premium taxes are included in this category of General Fund Revenues. Investment income exceeded $300 million for the second straight year, driven by historically high reserve balances. Quarterly growth rates for the “other” account were 23.0 percent, -0.9 percent, -1.9 percent and -7.5 percent.

Road Fund

Road Fund revenues for FY25 totaled $1,863.5 million, a decrease of 0.6 percent from the previous fiscal year. Total receipts were $11.1 million less than FY24 levels, but four of the seven major accounts had increases.  Revenues grew only in the first quarter of the year.  Growth rates for the four quarters were 3.6 percent, -3.3 percent, -2.2 percent and -0.6 percent.

Details of Road Fund collections for FY25 and FY24 are shown in Table 3.

Motor fuels tax revenues had the largest change when compared to FY24 receipts.  The decrease was largely the result of a 7.6 percent drop in the tax rate per gallon.  Collections were $69.0 million, or 7.6 percent, less than what was received in the prior year.  Quarterly growth rates for motor fuels taxes were -2.1 percent, -8.1 percent, -12.4 percent and -8.2 percent.

Motor vehicle usage tax collections reached an all-time high for the fourth consecutive year with receipts of $719.5 million, a 7.2 percent increase over FY24.  Revenues were strong throughout the year with growth rates of 9.4 percent, 3.1 percent, 6.1 percent and 9.8 percent for the four quarters. 

Motor vehicle license receipts declined $2.2 million, or 1.9 percent while motor vehicle operators’ receipts increased by $1.0 million. Weight distance revenues fell $0.5 million.  Investment income continued to improve with receipts of $19.0 million this year.  Lastly, “other” income grew $6.8 million.

Road Fund collections for FY25 were $38.5 million more than the official revenue estimate as shown in Table 4. 

Three accounts were below the estimated amount while four accounts exceeded the official estimate.  The forecasting differences ranged in magnitude from -$30.4 million to $69.4 million. Among the accounts, motor vehicle usage tax was $69.4 million over the official estimate while motor fuels revenues came in $30.4 million under the estimate.  All other accounts, taken together, were $0.5 million below forecasted levels. 

To access the report: https://osbd.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx

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FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System are joining forces to upskill Kentucky’s future workforce in damage prevention through a new scholarship program for KCTCS students.

At a news conference earlier today, the partners launched the PSC 811 Damage Prevention Scholarship. The 811 Damage Prevention program, commonly known as the “Call Before You Dig” program, is an important part of keeping Kentucky’s underground utility facilities safe and secure.

Through the partnership, the PSC is providing a $66,000 annual scholarship fund to support KCTCS students with training for how to safely locate and manage underground utility lines.

“At the PSC, we recognize that damaged lines interrupt vital services, damage property, and, in the case of gas and electric lines, can even cause injury or death,” said Kentucky Public Service Commission Chair Angie Hatton. “Despite ongoing efforts to promote the use of 811, dig-ins continue to happen. That’s why we partnered with KCTCS to sponsor these scholarships—to better educate the future workforce that will be responsible for working around underground utilities.”

Training supported by the scholarship will be offered in three KCTCS programs: construction technology, heavy equipment operations and plumbing technology at 10 community and technical colleges across the state.

KCTCS President Ryan Quarles said the partnership extends beyond financial support, calling it a “win-win for our students, economy and public safety.”

“This partnership is about opening doors to hands-on careers that are in high demand,” Quarles said. “It’s about giving students the skills and training they need to bejob-ready on day one, while also strengthening Kentucky’s workforce and investing in our local communities.”

The PSC’s funding will support $2,000 scholarships during the 2025-26 academic year. The funds may be used for tuition, course fees, books, supplies and other education- related expenses, as approved by KCTCS. Scholarships are not automatically renewable, but previous recipients may reapply and be considered for future awards.

To qualify, students must have unmet financial need as determined by the FAFSA and be credential seeking with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Preference will be given to Kentucky residents enrolled full time or planning to enroll full time.

“We’re proud to be part of growing this essential workforce — one that’s helping build a safer and stronger Kentucky,” Quarles added. The PSC is an independent agency attached for administrative purposes to the Energy and Environment Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,100 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in Kentucky and has approximately 90 employees.

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System consists of a network of regional colleges and a system office dedicated to serving communities across the commonwealth. As Kentucky’s largest provider of workforce training and postsecondary education, KCTCS enrolls more than 110,000 students annually. United in mission and purpose, KCTCS and its colleges are committed to improving the lives of students, strengthening communities and advancing the prosperity of Kentucky’s citizens. 

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LOUISVILLE, Ky., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ is bringing a new wave of flavor to Kentucky shoppers with the opening of its express unit inside the Walmart Supercenter at 7101 Cedar Springs Blvd, Louisville, KY 40291. This launch marks a significant milestone in Crave’s national expansion and its mission to make the fast-casual BBQ and specialty hot dog chain a household name.

Known for its innovative take on hot dogs, BBQ, and modern fast-casual dining, the opening of this location in Louisville has surely excited locals. The restaurant opens daily at 8 a.m. and features an exciting breakfast menu. Fresh-brewed coffee, pancakes, bacon, eggs, sandwiches, and even breakfast wraps bring an exciting twist to breakfast. As usual, the menu also features all the signature items Crave is known for on the main menu. Guests can enjoy hot dog fan favorites like nacho dogs, chili cheese dogs, Memphis dogs and more. Smoked brisket, pulled chicken, pulled pork bowls, sandwiches and plates too! Of course, for those feeling adventurous, loaded tater tots, mac n brisket bowls and other items can also be found here. If you’re looking for veggie dogs and salad options, fear not! We have those too!

Crave also offers delivery for those not wanting to come pick up, order ahead for those that want to grab n go, and curbside too! Crave has a full catering program and can cater breakfast, lunch, and dinner! By downloading the Crave app, you not only get delivery and order-ahead options, but you also get exclusive access to the secret menu. (shhh)! You can download the app here!

For more details about the brand or franchise opportunities, visit www.iwantcrave.com or email info@iwantcrave.com.

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LEXINGTON, Ky., July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Crunch Fitness today announces the opening of Crunch Lexington in Lexington, Kentucky. The $5 million, 40,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness facility will open its doors in Winter 2025. Operated by Crunch Fitness franchisee Fitness Ventures LLC, Crunch Lexington will be located at 125 East Reynolds Road in the former Joann’s building, creating a new fitness offering for residents of Lexington.

Fusing fitness with entertainment to make serious fitness fun, Crunch Lexington will offer top-quality cardio and strength training equipment, power half-hour circuit training, personal training, a dedicated group fitness studio, Ride cycling classes, TRX®, a functional HIITZONE^TM training area with indoor turf, tanning, HydroMassage® beds, Kids Crunch babysitting and full-service locker rooms with showers and a sauna.

Fitness Ventures LLC owns and operates Crunch Fitness locations across the U.S. Crunch Lexington will be Fitness Ventures’ 5th location in Kentucky and 75th nationwide, and the franchisee has plans to open at least 10 more locations this year.

“We are excited to bring the Crunch brand to Lexington. Crunch is for everyone – from the first-time gym-goer to the seasoned athlete,” said Brian Hibbard, CEO of Fitness Ventures LLC. “With a high-energy and fun environment, and memberships starting at $9.99 per month, we have options to meet everyone’s goals and budget.”

Crunch Fitness ranked #1 in the fitness category for the second year in a row and #32 overall in the annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500® – the world’s most comprehensive franchise ranking. Crunch Fitness continues to expand nationwide and push the bar with innovative offerings for its members.

Prospective members can visit CrunchLexington.com for more information about memberships and to sign up. The first 500 founding members to lock in their rate will receive $1 down, one month free, a complimentary t-shirt, discounts on small group and personal training and more.

Crunch is also expanding its team within Lexington and is looking for individuals who are eager to help their community experience fitness, wellness, relaxation, and recovery. Crunch believes in not only being the best place to work out but also the best place to work. Interested applicants can apply today at CrunchLexington.com.

About Crunch:

Crunch is a gym that believes in making serious exercise fun by fusing fitness and entertainment and pioneering a philosophy of ‘No Judgments.’ Crunch serves a fitness community for all kinds of people with all types of goals, exercising all different ways, working it out at the same place together. Today, we are renowned for creating one-of-a-kind group fitness classes and unique programming for our wildly diverse members. Headquartered in New York City, Crunch serves three million members with over 500 gyms worldwide in 41 states, the District of Columbia, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Spain, and India. Crunch is rapidly expanding across the U.S. and around the globe.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced more than $14.4 million to improve water and wastewater infrastructure in four communities across Eastern Kentucky impacted by the 2022 floods. The cities of Beattyville in Lee County, Fleming-Neon in Letcher County and Booneville in Owsley County along with the Knott County Fiscal Court will each receive funding.

“I made a promise to be there for our Eastern Kentucky communities as we rebuild and recover,” said Gov. Beshear. “As we approach the three-year anniversary of those floods, I’m proud that we’re continuing to show up and build a future that is brighter than our past.”

City of Beattyville

The city of Beattyville was awarded over $2.3 million to help rehabilitate the city’s existing wastewater treatment plant, which suffered damage during the 2022 floods. The plant serves over 500 homes as well as two correctional facilities.

“I’d like to thank Gov. Andy Beshear and the state for all the things they have done for Beattyville so far,” said the mayor of Beattyville, Scott Jackson. “We have received a DLG Grant for $2.3 million for our wastewater treatment plant. It will also help with the local prison.”

The new equipment will be more resilient to future flooding by reducing the amount of mud, silt and debris from entering the plant.

City of Fleming-Neon

More than $5.7 million in funding will go to the city of Fleming-Neon to help replace six water storage tanks throughout the city’s distribution system. Replacing the damaged tanks will help the city continue to provide over 900 homes reliable and safe water.

City of Booneville

The city of Booneville will receive more than $1 million to help improve the city’s sewage system by eliminating two river crossings. The system was damaged during the 2022 floods, stemming in part from increased water pressure at the river crossings. This project will improve the efficiency of the collection system that serves over 200 Kentuckians.

“We want to thank Gov. Beshear, the Department for Local Government, and our Kentucky River Area Development District for working with the city and securing funding for this sewer line redirect project,” said Mayor Nelson Bobrowski. “This project will remove the sewer line from the riverbed in not just one location, but two locations, completely out of the river while reducing our risk of it being damaged and causing severe pollution. This project will save the city $1,000 a month in electric costs.”

Knott County Fiscal Court

Over $5.3 million was awarded to the Knott County Fiscal Court to help build a new wastewater treatment plant in the community of Caney. The 2022 floods severely damaged the existing treatment plant. The new plant will be out of the floodplain and will ensure service to the communities of Caney and Mallie, as well as Alice Lloyd Community College.

“In an area deeply affected by the decline of coal mining jobs, this project opens doors for future growth, supporting potential expansion of the college,” said Knott County Judge/Executive Jeff Dobson. “It improves infrastructure for housing and economic development. Alice Lloyd College has been a strong supporter of this effort, and we are excited for what this means for our community and its future.”

The funding is made available through the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery Program.

Helping Storm Survivors

Gov. Andy Beshear established the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund to assist those impacted by severe weather systems beginning in 2025. To donate, click here.

Housing Can’t Wait Resource

Gov. Beshear is encouraging survivors of the 2021, 2022 or 2025 floods who are seeking housing support to visit HousingCantWait.org and fill out an interest form. Once complete, applicants will hear from a Fahe team member on next steps and support through the process.

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BreyerFest has been a can’t-miss event for horse lovers, collectors, and families since 1989. In 2025, the festival returns with more than 200 real horses, jaw-dropping demonstrations, interactive family fun, and of course, exclusive Breyer model releases you can’t get anywhere else.

A Star-Studded Equine Lineup

This year’s theme, “Cheers to 75 Years,” celebrates Breyer’s legacy since 1950—and it wouldn’t be a party without special guests:

• Olympic three-day eventer Will Coleman and his legendary horse Tight Lines will be on site for autographs and meet-and-greets.
• The Chincoteague Pony Drill Team makes their BreyerFest debut with breathtaking maneuvers.
• Fan-favorite Amanda Delgado returns to the ring with her stunning mare Athenian Lady.
• The Celebration of Horses Evening Spectacular, included with every ticket, promises unforgettable equine entertainment under the stars.

From Vaulting sensation Beau N Arrow to Welsh Cob Halcyonia Night Life, you’ll meet the real horses that inspired this year’s collectible models. Attendees will have access to an array of exclusive Breyer models, including:

• A Limited Edition blue appaloosa whose signature blanket is made up of iconic Breyer silhouettes.
• A reissue of the beloved Old Timer mold, celebrating his 59th year with a dapper twist.
• The official Celebration Horse—Tight Lines (“Phish”), captured in model form for all All-Access and VIP ticket holders.

Family Fun All Day Long

BreyerFest is more than a model horse show, it’s a weekend of family-friendly magic:

• Pony rides, petting zoo, and Super Dogs performances
• Live music every day
• Paint-your-own Breyer Stablemates art activities
• Shopping galore in the Artisan’s Market and Model Horse Swap
• Contests and workshops for collectors, crafters, and kids alike

Can’t make it to Kentucky? Join us from anywhere in the world via the BreyerFest Virtual Experience, featuring live broadcasts of the festivities all weekend long.

All ticket levels include an exclusive Special Edition Breyer model—plus access to event activities, entertainment, and giveaways.
Tickets are available now at www.BreyerHorses.com, including:

• VIP and All-Access Passes (in-person)
• Online Traditional & Stablemates Packages
• General Admission options for families and first-timers

About Breyer
Founded in 1950, Breyer has inspired generations of horse lovers with its lifelike model horses, created with artistry, authenticity, and heart. From backyard barns to competitive collectors, Breyer is more than a toy—it’s a lifestyle. Celebrate 75 years of horse magic. Come to BreyerFest 2025—where every model has a story, and every horse is a star.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that eight innovative Kentucky companies will receive $750,000 in state matching grants to support high-paying jobs and to further grow the state’s technology sector.

The grants are part of the commonwealth’s nationally recognized Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) matching funds program. The funds will match, in part, $6.4 million in federal grants the businesses will collectively receive.

“Creating a business-friendly environment that allows for startup technology companies to thrive is a key step in making Kentucky a hub for innovation and high-wage job opportunities,” said Gov. Beshear. “These companies are tackling today’s problems with tomorrow’s solutions, helping to make our New Kentucky Home – and the world – a better place. Congratulations to these businesses on this funding, which I know will support all the great work being done across our commonwealth.”

The eight Kentucky-based businesses awarded matching funds are using technology to advance multiple fields, from cancer therapy and postpartum recovery to battery technology and health care screening improvements. Recipient companies include:

B.A. Maze, Inc. (Louisville)

At-Home Health Station (AHS) systems by B.A. Maze Inc. provides a technology platform that organizes health monitoring tools, enables prompted health information and has secure data for streamlined patient-caregiver care and communication. The AHS will be developed via implementation feedback from individuals living with cognitive impairment/Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, ensuring the design is appropriate to the specific needs of this population.

BumptUp Labs Inc. (Bowling Green)

The BumptUp Labs project focuses on improving maternal and infant health through a digital platform to make key lifestyle modifications. The overarching goal of BumptUp is to become a sustainable platform for safe, effective, inclusive and evidence-based physical activity guidance to all pregnant and postpartum women.

Caza Innovations LLC (Bowling Green)

The Caza Innovations project will develop a portable optical light source and power meter capable of simultaneously measuring the power in optical fiber at multiple discrete wavelengths. The developed portable test instrument will support installation, testing, operations and growth of optical systems for terrestrial and mobile optical communication markets.

Creosalus Inc. (Louisville)

The devastating outcomes for glioblastoma (GBM) patients remain despite the advances in cancer therapy. Improved GBM therapy as a critical unmet need requires new GBM intervention capabilities as proposed with this Creosalus project. The premise of this project is that one of the challenges to improving GBM patient lives can be overcome by increased therapeutic coverage of GBM tumors using an innovative convection enhanced delivery catheter.

HeXalayer LLC (Jeffersontown)

HeXalayer is developing an advanced manufacturing process for their proprietary graphene material, which is utilized in the development of ultralight and safe lithium-ion batteries for the U.S. Department of Defense, as an additive to polymers, lubricants and other critical industrial applications. U.S.-based graphene manufacturing is important not only to national security but also for enabling the development of other cutting-edge technologies and products.

Lagrange Scientific LLC (Pewee Valley)

Lagrange Scientific is addressing a critical unmet need in kidney cancer by developing a novel laboratory-developed test to predict metastasis risk at the time of primary tumor resection, years before the standard of oncological care is able to identify and treat the spread of the cancer.

PGXL Technologies LLC (Louisville)

PGXL Technologies and the University of Louisville Research Foundation are developing a rapid, simple-to-use and cost-effective urine collection kit for detection of obstructive sleep apnea in children, which will support diagnosis, patient monitoring and screening. Common tests are reliable but limited by high cost and require an overnight sleep study at a clinic, making a simple non-invasive urine test beneficial and commercially attractive.

Space Tango LLC (Lexington)

The TangoBox is an evolution of Space Tango capabilities that is optimized for automated space manufacturing and research. In this project, Space Tango is proposing a new multi-use R&D and manufacturing infrastructure to vastly increase the throughput of the International Space Station (ISS) and future commercial platforms such as commercial ISS modules and commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) destinations for manufacturing purposes. This capability will benefit commercial operators and users in LEO as well as NASA for its forecast of needs for services in LEO after ISS is retired.

Kentucky’s SBIR/STTR program, overseen by KY Innovation, provides critical non-dilutive capital for promising early-stage tech companies by matching all or part of federal SBIR/STTR awards received by Kentucky-based businesses or companies committed to relocating to the state.

“The Kentucky SBIR matching fund program and its dedicated team have played a pivotal role in accelerating HeXalayer’s growth and establishing cutting-edge R&D capabilities for our advanced graphene Li-ion battery technology right here in Kentucky,” said Harut Vardanyan, CEO & co-founder of HeXalayer. “Thanks to this invaluable support, we’ve been able to streamline our product development cycle and strengthen our intellectual property portfolio by building world-class, in-house capabilities at our Louisville facility. These advancements are essential to our mission of delivering next-generation, U.S.-based battery technologies that support the critical needs of the Department of Defense.”

To date, Kentucky SBIR/STTR-awarded companies have leveraged the state’s matching program to receive $7.4 in federal or private capital for every $1 in state funds. These businesses also have created more than 773 well-paying jobs, 90% of which have annual salaries over $50,000. Match recipients have 240 patents and generated more than $129.6 million in sales and licensing revenue. Kentucky has made 345 match awards to 157 unique companies since the program’s inception, leveraging $173.17 million in federal funding coming into the state.

“This was another highly competitive SBIR/STTR matching funds round made up of exceptional startups developing a wide array of promising technologies,” said David Brock, executive director of KY Innovation. “Kentucky’s matching funds program was a national bellwether for technology-based economic development when it launched and remains one of the most powerful initiatives anywhere in the United States for fueling early-stage, high-tech companies. We commend the awardees, as well as all of the other applicants, and look forward to the impact they will make on Kentucky’s economy of the future.”

More information on Kentucky’s SBIR/STTR matching funds program and awarded companies awarded is available at kyinnovation.com/sbir.

The SBIR/STTR-awarded companies investment and job creation build on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,200 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $36 billion in announced investments, creating more than 62,000 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $15 billion more than the next highest total.

The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. Since 2022, the average incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 in three consecutive years for the first time.

Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; and Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County, among others.

The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund. In 2023, Kentucky recorded over 2 million jobs filled for the first time ever and has stayed above that number ever since.

Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.

Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings. Site Selection also placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and No. 6 nationally in its 2025 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.

Gov. Beshear also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.

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Over 60 years ago, KET was founded so every Kentuckian, no matter their circumstance, would have access to quality educational programs and services. The mission to enrich lives and build stronger communities by informing, inspiring and connecting remains the cornerstone of this Kentucky institution.

On June 12, the House of Representatives passed the Rescissions Act of 2025, which would eliminate all federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, reversing funding already appropriated by Congress. Under a July 18 deadline, the Senate is now considering the proposal.

However, the impact of the Rescissions Act isn’t about Washington, DC or even KET.

It’s about the loss of programs and services that more than two million people depend on each week, including parents, students, teachers, first responders and others.

For KET, the annual CPB grant is essential and part of what has traditionally been an effective and efficient funding mix. If that were to go away, the impact on KET – and those we serve – would be enormous.

Generations of Kentuckians know KET by our positive and trusted early childhood programs such as Sesame Street, Daniel Tiger and many more designed to help develop vocabulary and math skills and prepare children for school and life. For some it’s their only early learning provider.

Teachers and families count on KET’s high-quality educational resources available free of charge and serving K-12 and beyond.

People from one end of Kentucky to the other depend on KET as their source for in-depth information about our state, from all the wonderful aspects worth celebrating to the challenges we must face together.

Providing live, unfiltered coverage of the Kentucky General Assembly and Kentucky Supreme Court serves to keep an informed and connected citizenry.

And KET helps keep Kentuckians safe.  Through our 15-tower network, KET provides a reliable infrastructure for public safety emergency communications and warnings about severe weather, tornadoes, flooding and other emergencies.

The loss of federal funding (about 96 cents per person) would dramatically change KET’s operations and ability to produce uniquely Kentucky-centric programs and services on which so many depend.  A Kentucky asset, built over decades through the investment and support of Kentuckians, KET is a treasure that needs your support. There is still time to make a difference.

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A new study has revealed which metro areas have the most and least disposable income in Kentucky, based on the latest income and cost-of-living data.

Researchers at CashNetUSA compared average earnings to typical expenses across the state, calculating how much money people have left over after covering basic costs: https://www.cashnetusa.com/blog/budget-calculator/

As a state, they found that KY residents have around $12,234 of disposable income annually (about $1,020/month).

Here are the metro areas in Kentucky with the highest disposable income:

The Methodology Behind This Study

To find out which states and metropolitan areas have the most expendable income on average, CashNetUSA looked at cost of living data from MIT’s Living Wage Calculator
(https://livingwage.mit.edu/) and average wages by metros from the Bureau of Labor (BLS.gov).

From the MIT dataset, they identified the yearly income required for one adult (with zero children) in each state and metro, broken down into the following metrics:

● Food
● Housing
● Medical
● Transportation
● Civic
● Internet & Mobile
● Annual Taxes
● Other

For each state and metro, the team then subtracted the cost of living from the mean annual wage to determine the average leftover disposable income.
Data is correct as of March 2025.

The post New study reveals which metro areas have the most and least disposable income in Kentucky appeared first on Lane Report | Kentucky Business & Economic News.

LONDON, Ky. – Saint Joseph London recently performed its first robotic-assisted bronchoscopy using the ION system, which allows for more precise, minimally invasive lung biopsies. This is just the latest step in expanding access to advanced diagnostic tools for patients in Laurel County and the surrounding region.

“We’re excited to be able to offer this service to our patients,” said John Yanes, president of Saint Joseph London. “Bringing this type of technology to our hospital means our community can benefit from earlier diagnoses and advanced care without the need to travel for this high-level care.”

The robotic bronchoscopy helps pulmonologists reach small, difficult-to-access nodules in the lung with improved accuracy and less risk compared to traditional methods. It also allows patients to get more comprehensive answers, including diagnosis and staging within a single visit — which is especially important in early detection of lung cancer and treatment.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to offer this level of care locally. With this advanced technology, we’re now able to sample nodules in the lung that we used to refer out to tertiary centers in Lexington or even Nashville,” said Dr. Abdul Siddiqui, who successfully performed the first case. “Robotic bronchoscopy offers a high level of precision and minimally invasive diagnostics, so our patients can now begin comprehensive lung cancer care without any delay.”

The system uses a thin, flexible catheter with 3D navigation and shape sensing technology to guide tools deep into the lung. This advanced design provides greater stability and control during navigation, making it safer and more effective for physicians to sample small or peripheral nodules, which plays a critical role in timely and precise diagnosis.

Saint Joseph London is proud to add this to the list of services available locally, especially in an area where access to advanced procedures can sometimes be limited. The goal is to continue investing in tools that help provide earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.

About Saint Joseph Health

Saint Joseph Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 100 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes, home health agencies and an ambulatory Care Center. The hospitals in Saint Joseph Health are Flaget Memorial Hospital, Saint Joseph Berea, Saint Joseph East, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine, Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, and Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to providing a wide array of services toward a goal of building a healthier future for all. Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves. 

About Saint Joseph London

Saint Joseph London is a 150-bed full-service hospital located in London, Kentucky. Established in 1926, the facility serves patients from southeastern Kentucky, including those from Clay, Laurel, Jackson, Whitley, Knox and Pulaski counties. The current $152 million regional hospital opened in 2010, and offers all private patient rooms, with most overlooking a small lake and garden on the 52-acre healing environment.

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