FRANKFORT, Ky. — Governor Andy Beshear provided broad updates on his administration's progress across multiple initiatives, including economic development, workplace safety, environmental protection and efforts to combat substance abuse. The Team Kentucky update showcased momentum across the state on several fronts.

On economic development, Beshear announced that 16 projects supporting future job growth and investment across 18 counties were approved for $12.4 million in state funding to improve Kentucky's available sites. The administration has maintained what officials describe as strong economic momentum in 2026, continuing a multi-year streak of major private-sector investments.

The governor highlighted Kentucky's record-setting workplace safety performance, noting that the state's workplace injury and illness rate has dropped to a new all-time low of 2.5 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers. For the first time, Kentucky's incidence rate of nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses has declined below the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Beshear also recognized April as Safe Digging Month, reminding Kentucky homeowners preparing for home improvement and landscaping projects to call or visit the 811 website before digging. Utility lines including electricity, fiber optics, gas and water lie below the surface, and 811 provides around-the-clock underground facility location services.

The governor unveiled the 2026 Governor's Derby Celebration poster alongside Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman and Kentucky Derby Festival officials. The public will have the opportunity to purchase the poster later this month.

Lieutenant Governor Coleman announced a new online renewal option for boat registration that began April 1, allowing boat owners to skip trips to their county clerk's office and renew registrations online.

The governor also announced the addition of 10 new sites along the Kentucky African American Heritage Trail, which celebrates and showcases African Americans' contributions to both Kentucky and the nation.

However, Beshear raised concerns about the state budget passed by the Kentucky General Assembly on April 1, highlighting the impact of a $2.8 billion cut over two fiscal years to the state's Medicaid budget and legislation that limits the state's ability to keep Medicaid costs down.