Governor-Elect Beshear Could Inherit $1.2 Billion Budget Shortfall

The Bevin administration sent out a memo on Monday outlining the shortfall.

(Frankfort, Ky.) – Kentucky Governor-elect Andy Beshear could be put behind the eight-ball when he takes office.

The Bevin administration says Kentucky is facing a $1.2 billion budget shortfall over the next two years, reports The Enquirer.

A memo sent out on Monday cites corrections, pensions, employee health benefits and Medicaid as areas that will require additional funding over the next two years.

Beshear will only have a limited amount of time to draft his proposed two-year budget to present to the General Assembly, which is controlled by Republicans.

He has already proposed raising teacher salaries by $2,000 each, which was included in the estimated costs for the next two fiscal years.

House Democrats said in a statement that they are confident Beshear and legislators will find a way to move the state forward and maintain those services and programs Kentuckians count on.

Beshear must submit his proposal by late January.

More from Local News


Events

Attempted Murder Suspect Held on $5 Million Bond

Larry Webster II was in Ripley County Court this week.

2026 Primary Election Day is One Week Away

Polls will be open from 6 AM to 6 PM on Tuesday, May 5.

J.T.M. Announces Finalists for 2026 Beer Cheese Throwdown

Four past champions return for milestone 5th year competition; finalists set to battle live at NRA Show in Chicago on May 17.

Local Sports Report - April 28, 2026

One local softball star tossed a no-hitter on Tuesday night.

Indiana High School Seniors win IBCA Scholarships

Five area student athletes were among the 40 recipients.

On Air

Chelsie playing
Morgan Wallen - More Than My Hometown

Garth Brooks Ain't Going Down (Til The Sun Comes Up) 8:10
Randy Houser We Went 8:06
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 8:02
Montgomery Gentry Gone 7:59