Gov. Beshear: GLVUS To Establish North American Headquarters in Louisville With a $5.8 Million Investment, Creating 200 Quality Jobs
Facility will produce nation’s first domestically manufactured premium sterile surgical gloves for the U.S. health-care market
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 8, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted further growth of the state’s manufacturing industry as Glovesafe OpCo Inc., doing business as GLVUS, announced plans to locate its North American headquarters in Louisville, with a nearly $6 million investment, creating 200 new, Kentucky jobs.
“We continue to see Kentucky’s manufacturing sector set the pace for our surging economy and ongoing economic success,” said Gov. Beshear. “When quality companies such as GLVUS choose to locate here in the commonwealth, it is a testament to and a vote of confidence in our communities, business-friendly resources and talented workforce. This project will not just provide a great service for the American health-care system, it will also create 200 quality jobs for Louisville and the surrounding areas. I want to thank the company’s leadership for believing in this great state and welcome them to their New Kentucky Home.”
The project will see GLVUS establish its North American headquarters in Louisville’s LOUMED Medical & Education District in addition to a Louisville-based manufacturing facility. The new facility will produce the nation’s first domestically manufactured premium sterile surgical gloves for the U.S. health-care market. GLVUS’s investment will create 200 new Kentucky jobs, including positions in advanced health-care manufacturing, quality control, maintenance, logistics, packaging, tooling, chemical supply and facility support services.
The company will also plan to partner with Jefferson Community & Technical College (JCTC), located in the heart of LOUMED, to connect with the community’s talent pipeline to train and employ locally skilled operators, technicians and engineers.
“GLVUS represents a new era of supply chain resilience and health innovation,” said Matthew Griffin, CEO of GLVUS. “Our mission is to build a stronger, safer and more sustainable source of sterile surgical gloves for the American health-care system, made right here in Louisville, Kentucky.”
GLVUS is a new advanced health-care manufacturer that produces gloves for use by surgeons, clinicians and care teams. The company has emphasized a commitment to building a safer, more dependable foundation for health care delivery in the United States. By manufacturing sterile surgical gloves in the United States, GLVUS will deliver enhanced quality oversight, improved lot traceability and the ability to act rapidly in emergencies, ensuring a more secure and reliable health-care supply chain.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg highlighted the advantages of partnering with the community’s health-care infrastructure: “GLVUS’s investment is a perfect example of the power and possibility within the LOUMED District. By locating alongside world-class health-care providers, innovative businesses and the exceptional workforce training offered by JCTC, GLVUS is tapping into one of the most dynamic health innovation ecosystems in the country. This partnership brings new jobs today, but also opens the door for future expansion, new products and groundbreaking collaboration with Louisville’s health-care community. We’re excited to see what grows from this investment and proud that GLVUS chose Louisville to build its future.”
Trevor Pawl, Louisville Economic Development Alliance CEO, noted the business-friendly resources of the community: “GLVUS deciding to establish its North American headquarters and production facility here shows confidence in our workforce, our logistics advantage and our vision for a more resilient health-care future – strengths that companies from across the world are seeing in Louisville and choosing to invest here.”
GLVUS’s investment and job creation build on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.
Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,200 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $43 billion in announced investments, creating more than 65,500 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $20 billion more than the next highest total.
The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. Since 2022, the average incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 in three consecutive years for the first time.
Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; Ford Motor Co.’s $2 billion, 2,200-job commitment in Louisville; and Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County, among others.
The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund. In 2023, Kentucky recorded over 2 million jobs filled for the first time ever and has stayed above that number ever since.
Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.
Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings. Site Selection also placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and No. 6 nationally in its 2025 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.
Gov. Beshear also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.
To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) October 2025 preliminarily approved an incentive agreement with the company under the Kentucky Business Investment program.
By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.
In addition, GLVUS can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.
For more information on GLVUS, visit glvus.com.
A detailed community profile for Jefferson County can be viewed here.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at NewKentuckyHome.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.
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Gov Beshear: Kentucky State Police, Graves County, Mayfield First Responders Strengthen Interagency Communication
New emergency radio system enhances public and officer safety
MAYFIELD, Ky. (Dec. 9, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear was joined by the Kentucky State Police (KSP), Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan, the Graves County Sheriff’s Office, Mayfield Police Department and Mayfield Fire and EMS to launch a new radio system ensuring reliable communications between first responders.
KSP Posts 1 and 2, which collectively serve Ballard, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Hopkins, Livingston, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, Muhlenberg, Todd, Trigg and Webster counties, utilize the Statewide Emergency Responder Voice System (SERVS), allowing the state police enhanced radio communications with 9-1-1 dispatch. The radio system is free for local agencies to utilize if their equipment is compatible. Today, the Graves County Sheriff’s Office, Mayfield Police Department, and Mayfield Fire and EMS transitioned to the KSP radio system, meaning all agencies will communicate on the same network, leaving no gaps in communication and increasing efficiency.
“Our first responders display such sacrifice each day, and while we will never be able to fully repay our gratitude, we will do our best to show we care through support with equipment like this new radio system,” Gov. Beshear said. “To stay safe while on duty, our first responders and law enforcement officers must be able to communicate with local dispatch and one another when backup or critical information is needed. This new radio system is another step in ensuring they return home to their families after protecting our communities.”
This radio system in Western Kentucky was completed in April 2025, and by spring of next year, KSP Post 3 and Post 16 will be capable of supporting local users, guaranteeing improved first responder communications coverage for hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians.
“By bringing our partner agencies onto this state-of-the-art system, we ensure that help can be sent where it is needed most—when seconds count—while also returning valuable funds to those agencies as they no longer shoulder the cost of maintaining their own radio infrastructure,” KSP Maj. David Archer said.
“The Mayfield police and fire departments are pleased to be amongst the first emergency service agencies to join the new Statewide Emergency Responder Voice System. A program of this magnitude and significance is what results from everyone pulling in the same direction,” said Mayfield Police Chief Nathan Kent. “Our local, existing radio infrastructure is ailing, with coverage gaps and periodic failures. It’s reassuring for our first responders, their families and the citizens we serve that this new radio system will alleviate those concerns.”
To complete the project statewide, KSP is requesting $107 million in additional funding from the General Assembly, for engineering, construction, special equipment and project management to ensure coverage in Eastern Kentucky.
The Beshear-Coleman administration’s top priority is the safety of all Kentuckians. The Governor’s public safety actions are creating safer communities and a better Kentucky.
The 2024 Crime in Kentucky report, released in June, shows that, from 2023 to 2024, reports of serious crime decreased by 7.66%.
In September, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman joined KSP to break ground on a new, state-of-the-art Drivers’ Skills Pad at the agency’s training academy in Frankfort. The $2.7 million project will provide troopers, officers and cadets with a facility dedicated to safely practice and refine advanced driving techniques.
In April, Gov. Beshear was joined by members of the Cash family, the Kentucky law enforcement community and the Department of Criminal Justice Training to officially open the doors to the new law enforcement training facility named in honor of Jody Cash, who lost his life in the line of duty. The facility is a 42,794-square-foot facility with a 50-yard, 30-lane firing range designed for officers to learn intensive and specialized training that will support training all of Kentucky’s law enforcement agencies.
At the beginning of his second term, the Governor proposed a $500 increase to the law enforcement annual training stipend, but the General Assembly chose to provide a combined $262 increase over the next two years. The budget signed by the Governor raises the training stipend to an all-time high of $4,562 by fiscal year 2026. Additionally, the Governor is providing part-time law enforcement officers with an annual training stipend for the first time in the history of the commonwealth.
As the Governor recommended in January 2022, $12.2 million was included in the state budget for KSP to purchase body cameras, which is the first time in the commonwealth’s history that funding has been allocated for this much-needed expense.
For more information about KSP’s commitment to creating a better Kentucky by making the commonwealth’s streets safer, communities stronger and the nation more secure by providing exceptional law enforcement, click here.
KSP’s mission is to provide public safety, maintain critical services and safeguard the communities that KSP serves. For more information about KSP’s commitment to creating a better Kentucky, click here.
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Gov. Beshear Joins Toyota Boshoku America for Grand Opening of New $225 Million Facility in Hopkinsville Creating 157 Jobs
Industry-leading automotive interior systems manufacturer announced project in 2023
HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (Dec. 9, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials and leadership at Toyota Boshoku America (TBA) to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s new, state-of-the-art $225 million facility in Hopkinsville creating 157 full-time Kentucky jobs.
“The future has never been brighter for the commonwealth’s manufacturing and automotive sectors,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am proud to be here today celebrating TBA and this incredible investment in Hopkinsville and the Western Kentucky region that is creating 157 new jobs for our people. This new facility marks an exciting next step for TBA and I want to thank the company’s leadership for their commitment to Kentucky and our workforce.”
The new facility, located on nearly 50 acres in Christian County, is officially TBA’s first “smart plant,” implementing technologies to create a more efficient and environmentally responsible operation. Last month, the facility began production of seat frame mechanism parts such as seat tracks, seat recliners and motors with gear.
“Today’s opening marks more than a new manufacturing facility – it reflects our commitment to innovation, resilience and long-term growth,” said Shunichi Iwamori, president & CEO of TBA. “Just as importantly, it strengthens our partnership with this community, where we are dedicated to creating opportunities and contributing to shared prosperity.”
Toyota Boshoku Corp., a global interior systems supplier and filter manufacturer, develops and produces interior, filtration and powertrain components. With its global headquarters in Kariya City, Japan, Toyota Boshoku is the parent company of TBA, which is based in Erlanger, Kentucky. TBA and its affiliates employ more than 14,000 team members in 23 locations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. The company manufactures automotive interior systems, which include seats, door trim, headliner, substrate and carpet, in addition to air and oil filters for a variety of customers, such as Toyota, BMW and Subaru. In Kentucky, the company currently operates three full production plants, located in Bardstown, Harrodsburg and Lebanon. With the completion of this plant, TBA will employ over 1,100 Kentuckians across five locations in the commonwealth.
Hopkinsville Mayor James Knight welcomed the company to the community: “The city of Hopkinsville is proud to be the New Kentucky Home for Toyota Boshoku in Western Kentucky. We welcome the company and its leadership to our growing manufacturing family, which includes 75 industries, 24 international companies and several Japanese automotive firms. As the company officially cuts the ribbon on its new facility, we reaffirm our full support and commitment to ensuring its long-term success in our community.”
Christian County Judge/Executive Jerry Gilliam noted the region’s continued economic momentum: “Christian County and the southwestern Kentucky region continue to see phenomenal growth due to the investment and job creation from companies like Toyota Boshoku America. We are thankful to the company and their leadership for their significant investment and creation of over 150 new, well-paying jobs as we officially celebrate the grand opening of their newest Kentucky facility. More importantly, we appreciate the company’s corporate culture and commitment to being a good neighbor. We look forward to generations of shared growth, success and mutual respect.”
Carter Hendricks, executive director of the Southwestern Kentucky Economic Development Council, highlighted the positive impact the investment will have on the community: “We are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of TBA’s newest facility in Hopkinsville’s South Park. With their state-of-the-art investment and significant job creation, the company’s newest location is adding to the region’s growing manufacturing economy and creating transformational opportunities for regional residents and small businesses. We appreciate the leadership and support from Gov. Andy Beshear, Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel, the Tennessee Valley Authority, City of Hopkinsville, Christian County government and our workforce, education and utility partners for their contribution and support during the process to build this incredible facility in our region.”
TBA’s investment and job creation build on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.
Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,200 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $43 billion in announced investments, creating over 65,500 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $20 billion more than the next highest total.
The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. Since 2022, the average incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 in three consecutive years for the first time.
Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; Ford Motor Co.’s $2 billion, 2,200-job commitment in Louisville; and Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County, among others.
The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund. In 2023, Kentucky recorded over 2 million jobs filled for the first time ever and has stayed above that number ever since.
Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.
Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings. Site Selection also placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and No. 6 nationally in its 2025 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.
Gov. Beshear also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.
For more information on TBA, visit toyota-boshoku.com/us.
A detailed community profile for Christian County can be viewed here.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at NewKentuckyHome.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.
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Gov. Beshear: Kentucky Association of School Administrators Supports Pre-K for All
Association representing 3,300 education leaders requests
that legislature support Pre-K for All
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 8, 2025) – Today, the Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA), which represents 3,300 education leaders across the state, endorsed Gov. Andy Beshear’s Pre-K for All initiative. The organization submitted a letter Monday afternoon urging the General Assembly to make expanding access to pre-K for all Kentucky 4-year-olds a top priority in the 2026-2027 budget session.
“Teachers know that the key to kids succeeding in school is an early, strong start and Pre-K for All can provide that for every Kentucky child,” said Gov. Beshear. “Far too many of our kids are not kindergarten-ready, and we must change that for them, for our families and for our workforce. I want to thank KASA and educators across the commonwealth for their commitment to our kids and our future.”
Rhonda Caldwell, KASA’s chief executive officer, submitted the letter to the General Assembly on Monday. The letter noted that Pre-K for All would support children’s learning journeys, support workforce development, empower families and communities, and help build a brighter tomorrow.
“We endorse the thoughtful, district-led approach to expansion outlined in the Pre-K for All initiative report, which aligns with our vision to develop strong leaders, improve the quality and success of our school systems and support a skilled, educated workforce,” said Caldwell. “KASA urges the General Assembly to support the Pre-K for All initiative, recognizing the profound impact it will have on our public schools, families and communities.”
The KASA endorsement follows a letter from 44 local and regional chambers of commerce and their presidents last week requesting that the General Assembly expand Pre-K For All in the upcoming budget. Areas represented include Bowling Green and Louisville, as well as the counties of Ballard, Bracken, Clay, Floyd, Lincoln, Oldham, Scott and more.
In October, the Governor was joined by members of the Pre-K for All Advisory Committee, which shared 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.
Earlier in October, the Governor had announced that 63 county judge/executives, 34 mayors and the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents (KASS) all endorsed the Pre-K for All initiative. Those endorsements were made through three letters, each signed and delivered that month to members of the General Assembly.
Since the launch of the initiative in May, over 65,000 Kentuckians have written to their state legislators asking them to support expanding preschool access. Following numerous town halls held by Team Kentucky across the state, nearly 90% of participants voiced their support for more funding for Pre-K For All.
To learn more about the benefits of Pre-K for All and to see how you can get involved, visit prek4all.ky.gov.
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Gov. Beshear: Federal Judge Rules To Protect FEMA Rebuilding Funds for Kentucky, Other States
More than $21 million awarded to Kentucky projects has been withheld
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 11, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that a federal judge ruled in favor of Kentucky, 21 states and the District of Columbia and barred the Trump administration from unlawfully withholding disaster funds tied to a key pre-natural disaster mitigation program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The lawsuit, filed in the summer, set out to protect more than $21 million in funding appropriated by Congress and awarded to Kentucky projects aimed at protecting lives and communities from future natural disasters.
FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program provides crucial funding aimed at making communities safer and more able to withstand major storm damage.
“In Kentucky, we’ve faced more than our share of natural disasters and this FEMA funding is essential to our rebuilding efforts across the state, including our high-ground communities in Eastern Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “Ending this program is more than just short-sighted, it’s just plain wrong. I am glad the judge agreed and ruled that Kentucky’s $21 million was unlawfully withheld.”
FEMA’s termination of the program left the commonwealth with 13 unfunded projects despite Congress appropriating over $18 million in funding. The termination also cut nearly $3 million awarded to Kentucky for management costs.
Projects that were at risk include flood control measures, emergency generators, warning sirens and more for Eastern Kentucky; as well as a $10.5 million project in Frankfort to identify the most effective flood protection for the city after its second highest flooding in history this past April.
Along with Kentucky, plaintiffs in the lawsuit included the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin, as well as the District of Columbia.
A copy of the lawsuit is available here.
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Gov. Beshear Provides Team Kentucky Update
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 11, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development; upcoming winter weather; the state budget; medical cannabis; Pre-K for All; funding for organizations supporting safer communities; the fourth anniversary of the Western Kentucky tornadoes and new homes for families impacted; and collections from food drives. The Governor named Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 4 as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars in recognition of its annual Shop with a Trooper event in Elizabethtown.
Economic Development
Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,200 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $44 billion in announced investments, creating 66,000 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $20 billion more than the next highest total.
On Monday, Gov. Beshear joined local officials and leadership from Vsimple Inc., a leading AI company that specializes in improved operational inefficiencies for mid- to large-sized companies, as the company celebrated the ribbon cutting of its newly relocated headquarters from Southern Indiana to Louisville, a $5.1 million investment that will create 194 well-paying, Kentucky jobs.
The Governor highlighted further growth of the state’s manufacturing industry as Glovesafe OpCo Inc., doing business as GLVUS, announced plans to locate its North American headquarters in Louisville, with a nearly $6 million investment, creating 200 new, Kentucky jobs.
Gov. Beshear announced even more job creation within the state’s advanced manufacturing sector as Foxconn Technology USA Corp., the American subsidiary of Taiwan-listed Foxconn Technology Co. Ltd., will locate its first U.S. manufacturing operation in Louisville, with a $173 million investment that will create 180 new Kentucky jobs.
Tuesday, the Governor joined local officials and leadership at Toyota Boshoku America to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s new, state-of-the-art $225 million facility in Hopkinsville creating 157 full-time Kentucky jobs.
Gov. Beshear highlighted continued growth in Kentucky’s distribution and logistics sector as Kroger, the largest traditional grocer in the United States, announced intentions to establish a new $391 million distribution center in Simpson County, a project that will create approximately 430 new full-time jobs for Kentuckians.
Gov. Beshear announced a $2.1 million expansion project from RelaDyne, a lubricant distributor and market leader in fuel, diesel exhaust fluid and industrial reliability services. The project will create 80 new, well-paying jobs in Hebron.
Gov. Beshear highlighted exciting new momentum within the state’s maritime transportation and logistics sectors as Hines Furlong Line announced plans to expand its current operation in McCracken County, a nearly $11 million investment that will add 50 new, well-paying Kentucky jobs.
Today, the Governor also addressed South Korean SK On’s ending its joint venture with Ford for their U.S. battery factories. Ford will be taking over all Kentucky operations, while SK On is taking over in Tennessee.
“Ford has been committed to Kentucky since the first Model T rolled off the line in Louisville –and that commitment to our state and our workforce remains strong. In fact, the company just this summer announced the third largest investment in state history at the Louisville Assembly Plant,” said Gov. Beshear. “The news is that Ford will be taking over all Kentucky operations, and we are in communication with leadership to understand this announcement and the direction the company intends to take. I remain optimistic on the future of these facilities.”
More information on the news is expected to be shared by Ford early next week.
Upcoming Winter Weather
The Governor updated Kentuckians on winter weather expected across the commonwealth. One-to-four inches of snow is expected Thursday night into Friday morning, with an additional one-to-three inches of snow expected Saturday evening. Roadways are expected to be impacted. As always, Kentuckians should visit snowky.ky.gov for the latest on travel conditions.
Following the winter weather system, dangerously cold temperatures are moving into the region beginning Sunday and continuing through Monday. Wind chills will be below zero or near zero for most of the state. The Governor is activating the Emergency Operations Center so the Kentucky Emergency Management team will be ready to respond along with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Emergency teams are also working with local counties to open warming centers where needed. Team Kentucky will share this information as it becomes available. The Governor encouraged Kentuckians to be prepared.
“Make sure you’re staying informed through your local weather alerts and through social media. Have blankets, warm clothing, and have a plan to get to a warm place if your heat goes out,” said Gov. Beshear. “If you need to use a generator, keep it outdoors and have a carbon monoxide alarm in your home. We will continue to update Kentuckians on social media about the latest alerts and where things stand. Let’s do what we can to keep each other safe.”
Budget
The Governor noted that the November General Fund receipts rose 9.2% compared with the same month last year. Total revenues for November were over $1.3 million – an increase of $115.6 million from 2024. The Consensus Forecasting Group will meet Dec. 16. The Governor said that he will update Kentuckians on the budget shortfall and steps his administration will take to address it after that meeting.
“We’ve been working hard in Kentucky to make our economy strong, bring in good jobs and be responsible with Kentuckians’ hard-earned tax dollars,” said Gov. Beshear. “And we want to keep doing that – even as our nation faces challenges. So, we’re being intentional, thinking ahead, and doing what it takes to keep our economy strong for our families.”
Medical Cannabis
The Governor reported that The Post Dispensary in Ohio County will have a soft opening Dec. 13, starting at 10 a.m. CST and continuing until 6 p.m., or until supplies run out. This news makes The Post the first fully approved and licensed medical dispensary in the state. Product available was grown by Farmtucky, the first licensed cultivator to bring product to market.
“Our priority is ensuring Kentuckians suffering with serious medical conditions can have safe access to medical cannabis, as soon as possible, to get the relief they need,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’ll keep sharing more news as it’s available. We made a promise – a promise we kept. And now we’re just days away from the first safe medical cannabis being available in Kentucky for those who need it.”
Pre-K for All
This week, the Kentucky Association of School Administrators, which represents 3,300 education leaders across the state, endorsed Gov. Beshear’s Pre-K for All initiative. The organization submitted a letter Monday afternoon urging the General Assembly to make expanding access to pre-K for all Kentucky 4-year-olds a top priority in the 2026-2027 budget session.
Funding Awarded To Increase Public Safety
Gov. Beshear awarded more than $1.3 million in federal funding to 12 organizations to increase public safety throughout the commonwealth. Organizations receiving funding focus on reducing violence, suicide, homelessness and more and provide mental and behavioral health resources. Awardees include Western Kentucky University, the Hope Center, Maryhurst, the Fayette County Board of Education and the city of Somerset. Funding comes from the federal Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program. For more, see the full release.
Anniversary of Western Kentucky Tornadoes and New Homes
This week, four years after tornadoes that took the lives of 81 Kentuckians in December 2021, Gov. Beshear visited Western Kentucky to remember those lost and to continue the work of rebuilding. Tuesday, Gov. Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear joined The Hope Initiative in Princeton to dedicate four new homes to families impacted by the tornadoes.
“Four families are starting a new chapter after opening the doors to their new homes this week, four years after the tornadoes swept through Western Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “We made a promise to be here until every life and structure was rebuilt – and that’s a promise we’ve kept.”
Over the past four years, the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund has helped build 254 homes. Last year, the Governor and the Kentucky Housing Corporation announced a combined more-than-$223 million to build 953 affordable rental units for tornado-impacted communities.
Collections from Food Drives
The Governor shared that the Team Kentucky Food Drive, which collected nonperishable food at state office buildings in Frankfort and at the L&N Building in Louisville, received over 12,000 food items. Donations went to Dare to Care, God’s Pantry, the Christian Appalachian Project and the Capital Activity Center.
The Governor also announced that the annual statewide “Cram the Cruiser” food drive organized by KSP collected 306,961 pounds of food. “Cram the Cruiser” – hosted by all 16 KSP posts – aims to collect essential food items during the holiday season for those in need.
“This year has been hard on so many Kentuckians. Far too many families have faced hunger. As we entered the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, we looked for ways to support our neighbors,” said Gov. Beshear. “Thankfully, Team Kentucky stepped up. Kentuckians continue to show what compassion looks like. Thank you for always being there for your neighbors.”
Team Kentucky All-Stars
The Governor named troopers at KSP Post 4 and their families as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars in recognition of their annual Shop with a Trooper event in Elizabethtown. Over the weekend KSP troopers hosted 105 kids for a special day of Christmas shopping and holiday cheer. Children went home with gift bags packed with stuffed animals, books and other essentials. Parents also received gift cards to help with holiday needs.
“Times are hard for a lot of folks right now, and each year this event brightens the season for so many families,” said Gov. Beshear. “So, this week, I’m naming Kentucky State Police Post 4 and all of the folks who made this event so special as this week’s Team Kentucky All Stars.”
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Gov. Beshear: Kroger To Establish New $391 Million Distribution Center in Franklin and Create 430 New Full-Time Jobs
Company operates over 100 locations across commonwealth
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 11, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted continued growth in Kentucky’s distribution and logistics sector as Kroger, the largest traditional grocer in the United States, announced intentions to establish a new $391 million distribution center in Simpson County, a project that will create approximately 430 new full-time jobs for Kentuckians.
“I want to thank leaders at Kroger not only for this announcement of a new potential distribution center in Simpson County but also for their continued commitment to the commonwealth over many years,” said Gov. Beshear. “Kroger has long been a crucial contributor to Kentucky’s thriving economy, and this new location helps ensure that will continue to be the case for years to come. I’m grateful for the company’s expanding presence in our state – and these 430 new jobs for our people.”
The new operation will serve as a full-line distribution center, featuring scalable and automated operations to help supply the region. This is in addition to the $204 million expansion in Bowling Green where Country Oven, a bakery owned by the Kroger Co., has reinvested in Kentucky.
Kroger was founded in 1883 and is headquartered in downtown Cincinnati. The company has more than 2,700 stores in 35 states, more than 400,000 associates and annual sales in excess of $147 billion.
Kroger maintains nearly 110 stores in Kentucky, employing more than 19,000 associates. The commonwealth also is home to four manufacturing and distribution facilities that service the company, as well as a regional headquarters in Louisville. Since 1987, Kroger’s floral designers have created the famous Kentucky Derby Garland of Roses, and Kroger and the University of Kentucky in 2017 entered a 12-year marketing agreement that included renaming the university’s football stadium to Kroger Field.
Simpson County Judge/Executive Mason Barnes spoke on the local impact of the project: “It is really great to have a corporate partner like Kroger choosing to locate in our community. The jobs being created and the amount of investment dollars are extremely beneficial to strengthening our local economy. I am very glad to have Kroger here; it certainly helps broaden our industrial diversity in Simpson County.”
Franklin Mayor Larry Dixon welcomed Kroger to the area: “We are thrilled to welcome Kroger to Franklin, Kentucky. This significant $400 million investment in our community will not only create approximately 430 jobs with competitive salaries but also strengthen our local economy. This project reflects our commitment to fostering growth and providing opportunities for our residents.”
Jim DeCesare, executive director of the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority, showed his enthusiasm for the project: “We are excited to see Kroger establish a distribution facility in Franklin. This $400 million investment represents not just a commitment to our workforce but also to innovation and growth in our industrial sector. The projected 430 jobs will have a lasting impact on our community and enhance our region's economic landscape.”
Kroger’s investment and job creation build on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.
Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,200 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $44 billion in announced investments, creating 66,000 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $20 billion more than the next highest total.
The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. Since 2022, the average incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 in three consecutive years for the first time.
Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; Ford Motor Co.’s $2 billion commitment in Louisville; and Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County, among others.
The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund. In 2023, Kentucky recorded over 2 million jobs filled for the first time ever and has stayed above that number ever since.
Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.
Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky in the top five nationally and second in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2024 Governor’s Cup rankings. Site Selection also placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and No. 6 nationally in its 2025 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.
Gov. Beshear also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.
To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) today preliminarily approved a 15-year incentive agreement with the company under the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based agreement can provide up to $12 million in tax incentives based on the company’s investment of $391 million and target of creation and maintenance of 430 full-time jobs across 15 years.
Additionally, KEDFA approved Kroger for up to $1 million in tax incentives through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act (KEIA). KEIA allows approved companies to recoup Kentucky sales and use tax on construction costs, building fixtures, equipment used in research and development and electronic processing.
By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.
In addition, Kroger can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.
For more information on Kroger, visit TheKrogerCo.com.
A detailed community profile for Simpson County can be viewed here.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at NewKentuckyHome.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.
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