Gov. Beshear Provides Team Kentucky Update
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 30, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development, child predator arrests, community funding awards, Pre-K for All, mental health care and Halloween safety tips. Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman provided an update on the Team Kentucky Internship Program, and the Governor named food pantries across the commonwealth this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.
Economic Development
Gov. Beshear congratulated another great Kentucky company on its continued growth as Kinemetrix, a leader in robotic automation and advanced manufacturing solutions, celebrated the ribbon cutting on its newly expanded manufacturing operation in Lexington, a $4 million investment creating 12 quality jobs.
Child Predator Arrests
The Governor provided an update on steps Team Kentucky is taking to protect kids from dangerous predators. The Governor shared that, since 2019, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) has arrested 474 online predators for internet-related crimes against Kentucky’s children. That includes three major arrests this month alone, all related to child sexual abuse material.
The Governor also shared that the KSP Electronic Crime Branch has partnered with Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky to produce a series of videos with tips to help parents keep their kids safe online.
“As we all know, this generation of kids is online more than ever. It’s important we teach kids, parents and caregivers about online safety,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our message is clear: If you try to prey on our children, online or otherwise, we will find you, we will arrest you, we will prosecute you, and we will incarcerate you, because we want to protect every single one of Kentucky’s children.”
Community Funding Awards
Gov. Beshear announced more than $3 million in Community Development Block Grant awards to support community projects.
- The city of Maysville will receive $1.25 million to support the replacement of around 40,000 feet of waterlines along U.S. Highway 68, to improve water pressure.
- Mason County will receive $1.1 million to replace a water tank, improving service to over 2,000 homes.
- Montgomery County is receiving over $700,000 to support economic development, as the county is planning to lease equipment to Rip Technologies, a company that is investing over $4 million to move their operations to Mt. Sterling.
Pre-K for All
Gov. Beshear was joined by members of the Pre-K For All Advisory Committee, who shared the findings of its report on the need for pre-K in the commonwealth following four months of hosting town halls, 54 outreach events, and meetings with local leaders, educators, parents, child-care providers and businesses. The report is clear: Kentucky needs to expand its public preschool program through Pre-K For All. Read the full release.
Team Kentucky Internship Program
Lt. Gov. Coleman announced that the Team Kentucky Internship Program is now accepting applications for next summer. This is a paid-internship opportunity for college students interested in public service. Positions are available across the executive branch, and interns who complete the program requirements are eligible to receive interview preference for future employment in the executive branch. Last year, Team Kentucky had 51 interns and over 1,000 applications. Visit TeamKYIntern.ky.gov to learn more and apply to participate in next summer’s program.
Mental Health Care
The Governor announced that, since 2019, the number of mental health professionals licensed in Kentucky has nearly doubled. In 2019, the commonwealth had just over 10,000 licensed mental health professionals. Now, there are nearly 20,000.
“This means more Kentuckians are receiving the care they need,” said Gov. Beshear. “You’ve heard me say it time and time again: Health care is a human right – and mental health is just as important as physical health. I’m proud Kentucky has more professionals ready to help.”
Halloween Safety Tips
Gov. Beshear shared tips from the KSP on how to enjoy a safe Halloween and trick-or-treat this year. The Governor asked that motorists stay alert for increased pedestrian traffic, children walk with flashlights, only visit homes that have their porchlights turned on, and that parents inspect their kids’ candy and more. See the full list of tips from KSP.
Team Kentucky All-Stars
Due to the federal government shutdown, on Nov. 1, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits – which almost 600,000 Kentuckians rely on to supplement their grocery budget – will be suspended.
While the Trump administration has prohibited states from flowing state funds through the SNAP system to pay out benefits, the Governor and Team Kentucky have taken steps to help Kentuckians in need.
The Governor joined leaders from 24 other states and the District of Columbia in challenging the Trump administration over its unlawful decision to suspend SNAP; he has reallocated $9.1 million to support the Senior Meals program; and Team Kentucky will temporarily support the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program through more than $12 million in state funds during the month of November. Team Kentucky will also host a food drive, accepting non-perishable food at all state office buildings in Frankfort and at the L&N Building in Louisville. Donated items will be distributed throughout the state via Dare to Care, God’s Pantry and the Christian Appalachian Project.
The Governor named food pantries across the commonwealth this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars as they prepare for an influx of demand.
“Our food pantries support our families every day, but right now, that responsibility is even bigger. We thank them stepping up to help our people during challenging times, but they shouldn’t have to,” said Gov. Beshear. “My faith teaches me that food is life-giving and meant to be shared. The Trump administration prohibiting SNAP benefits is wrong, and we will continue doing everything we can to fight it.”
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