FRANKFORT— This past week, members of the Kentucky General Assembly gathered in Frankfort to delve into critical discussions and ongoing initiatives as we prepare for the 2025 Regular Session in January. I had the opportunity to participate in several key committee and task force meetings, showcasing a wide array of programs and priorities to strengthen Kentucky’s workforce, public health, and early childhood care systems.
The November Workforce Retention Task Force meeting highlighted innovative approaches to address the state’s workforce challenges, with presentations from SOAR (Shaping Our Appalachian Region), the South Central Workforce Development Board, and IEC of the Bluegrass. Each organization spotlighted the unique aspects of Kentucky’s workforce landscape and strategies to attract, retain, and develop skilled workers.
SOAR’s presentation centered on the pressing issue of workforce decline in eastern Kentucky, where the dwindling population of prime-age workers (ages 25-54) presents significant social and economic challenges. To combat this, SOAR has launched the “EKY Remote” program, funded by a $1.5 million appropriation from the state. Since its inception in the summer of 2023, the program has attracted 18 new households to the region, resulting in an estimated $1.5 million economic impact and $200,000 in tax revenue. Additionally, SOAR’s Eastern Kentucky Runway Project, bolstered by a $41 million grant, aims to address employment gaps in 12 counties, focusing on remote and healthcare jobs. Through these initiatives, SOAR is fostering sustainable economic growth while working to reverse trends of long-term joblessness in the area.
The South Central Workforce Development Board presented its program, “Attracting Military Retirees and Veterans to Strengthen Kentucky’s Workforce and Economy,” which spotlights the untapped potential of veterans as a skilled workforce. Veterans bring valuable skills in leadership, problem-solving, and mentorship. Yet, Kentucky’s military retiree population has decreased by 26% over the last decade, partially due to state tax policies that disadvantage military pensions compared to neighboring states. The board proposed tax exemptions for military pensions, expanded childcare support for military families, and interstate licensure compacts for career transitions to address this. They maintain that these initiatives would make Kentucky more attractive for veterans, helping to retain their skills and boost the state’s workforce and economy.
IEC of the Bluegrass closed the meeting with insights into workforce development in the electrical trades across 86 Kentucky counties. Their accredited four-year apprenticeship program, “Earn While You Learn,” combines 576 hours of classroom training with 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience, providing apprentices with critical certifications and a clear path to a Journeyman’s license. This model not only supports Kentucky’s workforce goals but also addresses skilled trade gaps essential to local economic growth.
The November meeting of the Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight Committee featured impactful reports on the programs funded by the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, which prioritizes public health, early childhood support, and substance abuse recovery efforts across Kentucky.
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) showcased several important initiatives, including the Kentucky Tobacco Prevention & Cessation Program. Through its “Quit Now Kentucky” initiative, which offers 24/7 quitline support, and the #iCANendthetrend program, which educates students on vaping prevention, Kentucky continues to lead proactive measures against tobacco use. This year alone, the program has reached over 10,000 students in 14 counties, and over 4,400 Kentuckians have enrolled in the cessation program. CHFS also highlighted progress in lung cancer screening, a priority under recent House Bills 219 and 180, by establishing advisory and partnership models to expand access.
The Early Childhood Oral Health program has also seen success, with dental varnish services provided in 36 health departments and over 23,000 applications in FY 2024, demonstrating growth from pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, the HANDS program, a home visitation service supporting family well-being, reached over 6,200 families with nearly 140,000 visits in FY 2024. These programs reflect Kentucky’s commitment to advancing public health, early intervention, and family support.
Members also discussed the critical topic of substance abuse treatment and recovery programs, with initiatives like KY-Moms MATR and Chrysalis House offering recovery support, employment training, and childcare assistance. Such programs support pregnant and parenting individuals navigating recovery, underscoring our dedication to improving community health and family stability.
Finally, the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood (GOEC) presented initiatives supporting Kentucky’s youngest learners and the professionals who care for them. GOEC emphasized their Early Childhood Registered Apprenticeship Program, which has graduated 67 participants, with over 100 currently enrolled. Additionally, the Regional Collaborative Network, which includes 37 state agencies, has made strides in streamlining policies and support systems across the state.
Looking forward, GOEC’s FY 2025 goals include enhancing developmental screenings, expanding career pathways for early childhood professionals, and strengthening cross-agency collaboration to support a robust early childhood care and education network. These initiatives ensure that every child in Kentucky has a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.
As we approach the 2025 Regular Session, I am encouraged by the comprehensive efforts underway across Kentucky to tackle workforce challenges, improve public health, and build a stronger foundation for early childhood education. I look forward to continuing these vital conversations and advocating for policies that benefit our people.
In closing, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and may your holiday season be safe, joyful, and filled with gratitude.
If I can assist you, feel free to email me at Robin.Webb@kylegislature.gov or call the General Assembly Message Line at 1-800-372-7181. Kentuckians with hearing loss can use Kentucky Relay by dialing 711.
