FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 4, 2024) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided an update on recovery efforts following recent severe weather; economic development; action taken on recent bills; National Public Health Week; and the upcoming solar eclipse. He also named everyone who helped Kentucky communities recover following recent storms and tornadoes as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.
Update on Response to Severe Storms
The Governor provided an update on the state’s ongoing response to severe weather that swept through the commonwealth Monday and Tuesday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed 11 tornadoes in Anderson, Bourbon, Boyd (two tornadoes), Clark, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, McCracken and Nelson counties. All tornadoes have been categorized as EF-1, except for the second confirmed tornado in Boyd County, which is believed to have been an EF-2. Straight-line wind damage was confirmed in Fayette, Mercer, Spencer and Woodford counties. Surveys are planned in Woodford and Fayette counties. There are currently 3,575 power outages, down from over 32,700.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has not reported additional blocked roads since yesterday. Rolling roadblocks are planned on Interstate 64 in Eastern Kentucky this week to support power restoration efforts. Most KYTC crews have resumed normal operations. Cleanup activities are underway in Central Kentucky to move storm debris along shoulders.
Some state roads are still blocked due to storm-related damage, including Kentucky Highway 3179 (Oil Well Road) in Barren County, where a section of the road washed away; Kentucky Highway 393 in Oldham County, as efforts continue to restore powerlines; and U.S. Highway 25 in Rockcastle County near the 0.5-mile marker due to a slide. If motorists see dark traffic signals due to power loss, they should treat it as a four-way stop.
People with questions about how to proceed with their insurance company after a disaster can find resources online or they can call the Department of Insurance at 502-564-3630.
Counties are starting the Federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance Damage Assessments. Those who have experienced storm damage should take photographs before cleaning up and report the damages to local county emergency management officials.
Economic Development
Gov. Beshear highlighted continued growth in Kentucky’s booming metals industry as SCS-2, a member of the Southern Coil Solutions family, announced plans for a new, cutting-edge $63 million distribution and transfer facility in Bowling Green, creating 28 new full-time jobs.
Action Taken on Recent Bills
The Governor updated Kentuckians on bills he has acted on since last Friday. The Governor has signed:
- Senate Bill 14 adds two members – representing nail technicians and estheticians – to the Kentucky Board of Cosmetology. It also changes the process for violations, requiring the board to issue a warning to a salon before taking punitive action.
- Senate Bill 18 standardizes the rules and specifications for school bus equipment.
- Senate Bill 29 simplifies the process for automotive glass insurance claims and expands options for consumers who need glass repair.
- Senate Bill 46 loosens restrictions on tinting for windshields, while maintaining visibility requirements.
- Senate Bill 125 expands the eligibility of local governments to participate in off-highway vehicle pilot programs.
- Senate Bill 145 allows more health care facilities to have access to child abuse registries when doing background checks on new employees.
- Senate Bill 158 allows financial institutions to open a restricted account for a minor for court settlements or claims proceeds.
- Senate Bill 162 expands the ability of law enforcement to access and retain copies of accident reports.
- Senate Bill 164 makes it easier for Kentuckians to gain their electrician or plumbing license through proprietary schools and career centers.
- Senate Bill 174 strengthens the restrictions on gas companies regarding protecting communication internet lines.
- Senate Bill 194 allows employer health plan information to be delivered digitally.
- Senate Bill 229 removes the Kentucky Municipal Utilities Association as a member of the Blockchain Technology Working Group and the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority Board, and adds a member appointed by the Kentucky League of Cities to both.
- Senate Joint Resolution 140 directs the Public Service Commission to make staffing and administrative preparations to be ready to process applications for the siting and construction of nuclear energy facilities.
- House Joint Resolution 56 allows $71 million in capital construction funds that were approved in the last budget to be released for improvements at Kentucky State Parks.
The Governor vetoed:
- Senate Bill 65 seeks to void emergency regulations regarding expanded coverage for dental and hearing care. The Governor noted the bill’s sponsor even acknowledges these regulations are already void after non-emergency regulations were passed. See the Governor’s full veto message.
- Senate Bill 198 attempts to establish the Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority. The Governor said that while he supports an all-of-the-above energy policy that includes nuclear energy, this bill is unconstitutional, as it grants Executive Branch governing authority despite having no Executive Branch appointments, and it deprives the citizens of the commonwealth of any meaningful oversight. See the Governor’s full veto message.
- House Bill 581 preempts local governments from using a zoning process and deciding the location of electric vehicle charging stations within its jurisdiction. The Governor said this interferes with local government decisions on local matters. See the Governor’s full veto message.
- House Bill 804 seeks to take decision-making authority on venue changes in certain cases from the Judicial Branch. Gov. Beshear said this is an unconstitutional bill that has been struck down in other forms. See the Governor’s full veto message.
National Public Health Week
Gov. Beshear recognized this week, April 1-7, as National Public Health Week and thanked the Department for Public Health for helping create a stronger, healthier Kentucky.
“With the challenges Team Kentucky has faced over the years, our public health professionals have repeatedly made selfless decisions to show up and help others,” said Gov. Beshear. “They deserve the title of health care hero every single day.”
He also highlighted the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program, which helps qualifying individuals access free or reduced-cost medications from drug manufacturers and other pharmacy discount programs. Last year, over $68.5 million worth of prescription drug support was provided through the program. Kentuckians can call 1-800-633-8100 to see if they qualify for assistance. Eligibility is based on income guidelines set by participating pharmaceutical companies.
Preparing for Total Solar Eclipse
The Governor urged Kentuckians to plan for a memorable and safe total solar eclipse, which will occur April 8, with totality starting around 2 p.m. CDT, in parts of 12 Western Kentucky counties. Gov. Beshear encouraged those in prime viewing destinations to come early, be prepared, drive smart and leave late. For more information on the solar eclipse, including tips and travel information, visit transportation.ky.gov. Check GoKY.ky.gov for traffic information.
Team Kentucky All-Stars
The Governor named those who helped communities recover following recent storms and tornadoes as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars, including first responders, emergency management teams, the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky State Police, utility and transportation workers and local officials.
“I am always inspired by Kentuckians’ kindness and compassion for each other. We saw neighbors helping neighbors and communities coming together to provide those in need with shelter, a warm meal or a big hug,” said Gov. Beshear. “Thank you to everyone out there making a positive difference and helping our communities and families recover.”
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