Governor Andy Beshear delivered his annual State of the Commonwealth address Wednesday, which focused on economic momentum, key areas of progress, and priorities to improve the Commonwealth.

In his speech, the governor centered his remarks around the “My New Kentucky Home” initiative, a campaign created to market the Commonwealth as a top state to live, work, and invest in and to continue the growth Kentucky has experienced.

He highlighted numerous economic development projects announced across the state over the past year and celebrated the investment and job creation these businesses are bringing to their communities, which include AT&T, BlueOval SK Battery Park, Dan-O’s Seasoning, Piramal Pharma Solutions, Swedish Match North America, Toyota, and Whiskey House of Kentucky.

Over the past five years, Beshear stated Kentucky has seen announcements of $35 billion in private sector investments and the creation of 59,800 full-time jobs. The governor also noted that Kentucky has achieved record highs in exports and tourism.

Beshear spoke on key areas he sees as priorities to ensure continued growth.

He emphasized the state’s low cost of living, which is 11.1% below the national average, and highlighted the reduction of the individual income tax as a way to help ensure that Kentuckians have more money in their pockets.

He stressed the importance of collaboration and focusing on what matters most to families, which he identified as good jobs, accessible health care, safer roads and bridges, support for education, and safe communities.

“While we are creating these jobs, we must continue to ensure that our workforce is strong and prepared for the future,” Beshear stated. He noted the need to support businesses in finding and developing their workforce through the Statewide Workforce and Talent Team.

Beshear also highlighted significant infrastructure projects underway in key regions of the Commonwealth and commended the legislature for supporting those investments to improve roads and bridges, provide clean water, and expand broadband access.

He addressed the importance of keeping Kentucky communities safe by underscoring successful initiatives to seize fentanyl, establish more Recovery Ready Communities, decrease overdose deaths, and reduce recidivism in the Commonwealth.

The governor called for support for universal pre-K, describing it as the single most impactful policy to boost Kentucky’s workforce and economy. He also urged lawmakers to prioritize public education and advocate for pay raises for teachers.

To watch the full address, visit ket.org. Click here to read the governor’s remarks.