Gov. Beshear Provides Team Kentucky Update

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 5, 2026) - Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development, medical cannabis, efforts to protect Kentuckians from scams, flood mitigation efforts, School Social Work Week, Colon Cancer Awareness Month, changes affecting taxpayers filing in April, and upcoming weather. Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, joined the Governor to provide an update on the Our Healthy Kentucky Home initiative. The Governor also announced the certification of four new Recovery Ready Communities and named those communities as this week's Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
Today, Gov. Beshear highlighted growth in Kentucky's food and beverage industry as MarfoFMA announced plans to open its first production facility in the United States in Covington - a project secured during the October 2025 economic trade mission to Europe. The more-than-$37 million investment will create 78 highly skilled positions.

The Governor highlighted further progress within the state's speed-to-market and site development efforts as he announced two new Build-Ready sites in Lincoln County, preparing the community and surrounding areas for future investment, economic growth and job creation.

This week, Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky once again secured its place in the top five for economic development projects per capita as Site Selection magazine posted its 2025 Governor's Cup rankings. The commonwealth has held a top-five ranking during all six years of the Beshear administration.

Medical Cannabis
The Governor announced that Kentucky now has 19 operational licensed medical cannabis businesses. Newly approved cultivators include L&O Legacies in Jessamine County; Best State in Lincoln County; and Slaughter Branch in Hopkins County. On Feb. 20, Speakeasy Dispensary in Hopkins County opened its doors to serve patients.

So far, eight cultivators, two safety compliance facilities, one processor and eight dispensaries are approved to operate in the commonwealth. These numbers are expected to grow this month, as three additional licensees are scheduled for inspection.

More than 19,726 Kentuckians have been approved for medical cannabis cards. That's an increase of more than 2,000 approved applications since last month, as more Kentuckians learn about the program and get connected to care. So far, 519 practitioners are registered to issue certifications. To see the most current list of open dispensaries and learn how to apply for a medical cannabis card, visit kymedcan.ky.gov.

Stop Scams Initiative
Gov. Beshear announced a new partnership between the Stop Scams initiative and the Kentucky State Police (KSP) that will share resources with law enforcement agencies across the state and protect more Kentuckians against scammers. This announcement also lines up with National Consumer Protection Week. Public Protection Cabinet Secretary Ray Perry and KSP Trooper Scotty Sharp joined the Governor to talk about this initiative.

In August 2025, the Governor announced a new website, StopScams.ky.gov. The site offers tips on how to avoid trending scams, how to report scammers, resources to help if someone falls victim and the option to opt in for email or text alerts on emerging scams. More than 30,000 subscribers have signed up to receive Stop Scams text and email alerts.

Flood Mitigation Efforts
The Governor highlighted projects to protect Kentuckians from future flooding. Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) voluntary property buyout program, over $118 million has been provided to buy and remove homes at risk of flooding, with nearly 600 homeowners in six counties now able to relocate to safer ground. Gov. Beshear highlighted a community project in Whitesburg, where Team Kentucky has dedicated over $258,000 to the Cowan Community Action Group to install rain barrels, creek-side plantings and other stormwater collection tools. Additionally, progress is continuously being made at eight high-ground sites that will eventually provide over 500 homes out of the flood plain.

School Social Work Week
Gov. Beshear highlighted that March 2-6 is School Social Work Week in the commonwealth. The Governor was joined by representatives from the Kentucky Association for School Social Work.

"Our school social workers work alongside our teachers and school administrators every day to create a positive environment in our schools, looking out for our children and connecting them to resources they need to thrive. And they often help our kids during some of their toughest moments," said Gov. Beshear. "To all our school social workers: We see the hard work you put in, and we are so grateful for your efforts and the positive impact you're making for kids across Kentucky."

Colon Cancer Awareness Month
The Governor was joined by representatives from the Colon Cancer Prevention Project to recognize March as Colon Cancer Awareness Month in Kentucky. Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men and women combined, as well as the first leading cause of cancer-related death for people under 50. The Governor emphasized the importance of getting screened. It's estimated that 60% of deaths related to colon cancer could be prevented through regular screenings. The new recommended age to get your first screening is 45. Visit the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening Program for more.

Our Healthy Kentucky Home
Dr. Stack provided an update on Our Healthy Kentucky Home, an initiative to promote simple, positive and attainable goals to inspire and motivate Kentuckians on a journey to health and wellness. For March, the initiative is focusing on emergency preparedness. Dr. Stack highlighted resources Kentuckians can use to be prepared, such as Kentucky Emergency Management, the Kentucky Medical Reserve Corps and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

National Changes Affecting Taxpayers Filing in April
The Governor highlighted important national changes that will impact Kentuckians filing their taxes April 1-15, 2026, and provided tips on how to avoid delays and ensure returns are accepted and marked on time. The deadline to file federal and state individual income taxes is Wednesday, April 15, 2026. For more, see the full release.

Weather
The Governor provided an update on upcoming weather in the commonwealth. Heavy showers are expected to continue for the next six to 10 days. There is a 60% chance for above normal precipitation through March 13 across the Ohio Valley. Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are possible, which could be strong to severe. This amount of rain will increase the potential for flooding. Runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other flood-prone areas.

"Folks in flood-prone areas need to have your alerts on, make sure to stay weather-aware and be really cautious while driving," said Gov. Beshear. "If you're driving and you see high water, please turn around. We'll keep sharing updates as available. Let's do everything we can to keep each other safe."

Four New Recovery Ready Communities and Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear announced the certification of Clark, Johnson, Madison and Mason counties as Recovery Ready Communities. By designating these counties as Recovery Ready, Team Kentucky is expanding access to assistance for drug and alcohol addiction for an additional 176,000 Kentuckians.

In recognition of their commitment to tackling the addiction crisis and providing support for residents, the Governor named Clark, Johnson, Madison and Mason counties as this week's Team Kentucky All-Stars.

"These efforts are saving lives. And I can't emphasize enough how important it is to have care right within your own community," said Gov. Beshear. "To the leaders and communities of Clark, Johnson, Madison and Mason counties: Thank you for doing the work to receive this designation. You will change lives for the better - and your work will make sure folks have another chance at a full, happy life."

###