Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee have all recently outlined their priorities for the upcoming 2024 legislative sessions in their respective states.
Governor Andy Beshear, who was recently reelected to a second term, gave his second State of the Commonwealth address in Kentucky. He focused on the state's economic success, education, and healthcare. Beshear highlighted Kentucky's best four-year economic period historically, securing over $28.7 billion in investments and creating over 51,000 jobs. He emphasized the need for better pay for public educators and promised an 11% raise for teachers. Beshear also commended the state's efforts towards addiction recovery and healthcare access, including capping insulin prices and opening the first hospital in west Louisville in 150 years. The governor discussed infrastructure changes, law enforcement, and first responders, expressing his commitment to building a better world for Kentuckians [3d4d27a0].
Beshear's State of the Commonwealth address aligns with his plans for his second term, which include prioritizing education and the economy. He aims to make investments in the public education system, provide raises for educators, and implement universal Pre-K. Additionally, Beshear intends to attract new businesses and create jobs in Kentucky, with the possibility of announcing significant economic developments in the coming months. The governor's focus on education and the economy reflects his commitment to providing opportunities for future generations and addressing the changing economic landscape [f9113e1e].
In Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp delivered an address at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce's annual Eggs and Issues legislative preview event. He outlined his priorities for the 2024 legislative session, which include addressing workforce development challenges, reinforcing Georgia's status as a right-to-work state, tackling high insurance costs, investing in infrastructure, and establishing new higher education assets. Governor Kemp emphasized the importance of protecting workers and requiring transparency from unions. He announced budget proposals that include investments in water and sewer projects, transportation infrastructure, workforce housing, and the construction of a dental school and medical school. These measures are aimed at maintaining Georgia's position as the best state for business and ensuring opportunities for all Georgians [450a1481].
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has recently signed an immigration enforcement bill that was pushed after the killing of Laken Riley. The bill introduces strict immigration control laws for prison inmates. The signing of the bill has worried Latino advocates. Lashawn Thompson, an inmate in Atlanta, was reportedly eaten alive by insects in his jail cell while awaiting trial. The family's attorney claims that the conditions were unsuitable for a deceased person. Georgia lawmakers have agreed on pay raises in the upcoming budget but must resolve differences by Thursday [40470f7d].
In Tennessee, Governor Bill Lee delivered his State of the State Address, highlighting the state's success and outlining his plans for the future. He expressed gratitude for the support and prayers he and his wife received during his wife's battle with cancer. Governor Lee emphasized the state's fiscal responsibility and economic prosperity, noting that Tennessee has been ranked as the fastest-growing economy in the US and the number one state for fiscal stability. He announced a $20 million investment in Tennessee's Rainy Day Fund and proposed tax cuts to make the state more attractive for businesses. The governor also discussed the importance of education and proposed making school choice a reality for every Tennessee family. He highlighted the need to protect Tennessee's music industry by proposing legislation to prevent the impersonation of Tennessee artists using artificial intelligence. Governor Lee also addressed the challenges of mental health, rural healthcare, and permitting processes. He announced a significant investment in rural healthcare and behavioral health and proposed statewide permitting reform to accelerate building times and lower costs. The governor also emphasized the importance of conservation and announced plans for new state parks, a Farmland Conservation Fund, and investments in clean and reliable energy. He concluded by urging unity and collaboration to continue building and protecting the great state of Tennessee [d60a7704].
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has signed four law enforcement-related bills into law. One measure allows the families of deceased first responders to receive the responder’s salary for up to 60 days. Another bill increases the payout for individuals enrolled in the Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Death Benefits Trust Fund. House Bill 691 grants the State Board on Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Training the power to investigate misconduct and revoke officer certificates. The bill also mandates that the governor make six appointments to the board. Reeves believes that the increased training opportunities will provide more accountability. The state has taken over the investigations of officer-involved shootings to ensure an unbiased source [e486dcae].
All three governors are focused on improving their states' economies and education systems. They recognize the importance of investing in infrastructure and workforce development to attract businesses and create jobs. Additionally, they are committed to providing opportunities for their constituents and ensuring access to quality healthcare. Their priorities for the upcoming legislative sessions reflect their dedication to the well-being and prosperity of their respective states.