LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Let’s take a dive into Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s multi-billion-dollar budget proposal.
In his first address since getting reelected, the governor discussed everything from education to jobs to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges. He said public safety is not only a top priority for state government but a sacred trust they have with those they serve.
Beshear said in the last two years alone, his administration has taken steps resulting in more than an $18,800 pay bump for Kentucky State Police (KSP) troopers and officers.
“Due to these increases and the tireless efforts from the KSP recruitment branch, more than 1,000 troopers are now keeping us safe; the highest number since 2017.” Beshear said.
Law enforcement officers deserve to be respected and paid fairly, Beshear said.
“To achieve that, first, I’m proposing an additional $2,500 raise for all KSP troopers and officers and enough new funding to add 150 more troopers over the next two years,” Beshear said. “My budget also raises that training stipend, that the state pays local and state law enforcement officers and local firefighters.”
According to the governor, roughly 8,000 law enforcement officers and more than 4,100 firefighters would get a pay boost under the plan. The governor also proposes injecting $35 million into grants for body armor to protect officers and first responders, he said.
Beshear added the investment was inspired by KSP Trooper Billy Ball, whose life was saved by the protective gear he wore during a deadly shooting in Floyd County in 2022. The shooting took the lives of three of his fellow officers.
The governor also said he wants to support law enforcement with a $146.1 million investment to build a Western Kentucky regional training center to expand law enforcement training.
The 2024 Legislative Session begins Jan. 2.
