Gov. Beshear talks Medicaid, PreK for All, the American dream in his final budget address

Wednesday marked Andy Beshear final budget proposal as governor of Kentucky, and it carried with it big goals and ideals, as the Kentucky General Assembly begins the process of constructing a state budget.

During a budget address and a State of Commonwealth Address Wednesday night, Governor Beshear highlighted his continued commitment to PreK for All initiative, increasing economic development even further, bringing in more affordable housing and expanding access to public healthcare while supporting rural healthcare.

He says Kentucky has proven that we’re built different—where many other states have seen economic decline, Kentucky’s economy remains very strong.

Beshear says his own family is a great example of the American dream, but these days, families are finding it harder than ever to live that dream, and he feels his budget could help Kentucky families find their footing.

One big part of his proposal includes fully funding Medicaid in Kentucky, even in the face of a higher financial burden, and it includes funding for rural hospitals and supporting nursing students.

Other highlights in his proposal include increases to SEEK funding for public schools, additional funding for teacher pensions and $160 million for educator raises. He included funding for site development, including millions for rural economic development and large-project infrastructure.

There was plenty to consider from the governor, but it’s the Kentucky Legislature that gets the final say, as they reconvened in Frankfort this week with the goal of passing a two-year spending plan. With the state income tax officially down to 3.5 percent and a budget shortfall projected by the governor himself, we’ll have to wait and see what makes it into a state budget.

This was Governor Beshear’s final budget address due to the fact that Kentucky has term limits on the governor’s office—though Beshear playfully hinted that he might yet run for a higher office.