FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 9, 2026) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that he has extended his executive order that reduced the gas tax by 10 cents and resulted in lower gas and diesel prices across the state for 33 cities and counties where local officials requested an extension. Kentuckians in areas where the county judge/executive chose not to request an extension can expect to see prices at the pump rise by 10 cents per gallon starting Thursday, June 11.

“Gas prices are too high due to the continued war in Iran, and Americans – including right here in Kentucky – are struggling. Every dollar counts, and my executive order lowered gas and diesel prices across the state to help our families save,” said Gov. Beshear. “Government is there to help our people, and the state can and will make up any potential financial hit. Right now, our priority should be on Kentucky families, and I applaud these local leaders for doing what’s right.”

To extend the May 5 executive order past the 30-day mark of Wednesday, June 10, Kentucky law required county judge/executives and city mayors to make a request. The Beshear administration received requests from leaders in the following areas, where the order has now been extended through Tuesday, June 30: the cities of Alexandria, Ashland, Campton, Carrsville, Clay City, Covington, Drakesboro, Earlington, Eminence, Falmouth, Gamaliel, Glencoe, Island, Jenkins, London, McHenry, Oak Grove, Owensboro, Owingsville, Paintsville, Park City, Sebree, Smithfield, Smiths Grove, West Point, Whitesville and Winchester; Louisville Jefferson County Metro Government; and Carter, Graves, Magoffin, Morgan and Wolfe counties.

The communities that did not request an extension will see gas and diesel prices rise beginning Thursday, June 11. The Governor acknowledged that some local officials’ decisions to not make a request may stem from pressure from certain state legislators in recent committee hearings.

Recognizing the strain rising gas prices were putting on Kentucky families, the Governor took several steps in early May to provide relief.

First, the Governor signed an emergency regulation to freeze the gas tax at 26.4 cents per gallon ahead of an expected increase to 27 cents per gallon on July 1. The action to freeze the current rate is projected to save Kentuckians about $1.7 million combined each month.

Gov. Beshear also signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency related to gas prices. The order reduced the gas tax by 10 cents, resulting in a 10 cent per gallon price decrease for Kentuckians. The order was expected to save Kentuckians $26.8 million combined over a one-month period.

To enforce the reduction and ensure providers didn’t keep the 10 cents, Gov. Beshear also activated the state’s price-gouging statute.

The Governor also sent two letters urging leadership in Congress and leaders in Kentucky’s congressional delegation to suspend the federal gas tax until the end of the year.

In a proactive step, the Governor also signed an executive order to freeze the 2026 motor vehicle assessment rate ahead of an expected increase on Jan. 1, 2027.

These actions came just weeks ahead of a May 27, 2026, price decrease in Jefferson County and parts of Bullitt and Oldham counties after the Governor’s request to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the Louisville area to be removed from the federal Reformulated Gasoline Program received approval in February. For 30 years, Kentuckians living in these counties were paying 10 to 25 cents more per gallon.
 

Frankfort, Kentucky (June 8, 2026) - Kentucky’s leadership in consumer data privacy was highlighted last week during a hearing before the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, where testimony pointed to the Commonwealth’s landmark privacy protections as a model for federal legislation.

In testimony before the subcommittee, Ashli Watts highlighted Kentucky’s work to strengthen consumer privacy rights and specifically recognized the leadership of Representative Josh Branscum, R-Russell Springs, in advancing some of the nation’s most forward-thinking data protection laws.

Two years ago, the Kentucky General Assembly enacted House Bill 15, sponsored by Branscum, giving Kentuckians greater control over their personal information. The law established important consumer rights, including the ability to access, correct, and delete personal data, as well as opt out of the sale of that information.

“As Congress considers a national framework for consumer data privacy, it is encouraging to see Kentucky’s work recognized as a model for protecting consumers while promoting innovation,” Branscum said. “Kentucky has taken a proactive approach to ensuring individuals have greater control over their personal information in an increasingly digital world.”

Kentucky’s commitment to consumer privacy has continued beyond HB 15. During the 2026 legislative session, lawmakers addressed Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology with the passage of HB 692, also sponsored by Branscum.

The measure is among the first laws in the nation to regulate ACR technology, which can collect and analyze viewing data through smart televisions and smart monitors. House Bill 692 strengthens consumer protections by helping prevent unauthorized data collection and ensuring Kentuckians maintain greater control over their personal information.

With Congressional attention and movement in other states, Branscum’s efforts are keeping Kentucky at the forefront of consumer privacy policy. And, national attention to the Commonwealth’s efforts underscores the impact of legislation passed by the General Assembly to safeguard personal data and strengthen consumer rights.

Watch the congressional hearing here: https://www.youtube.com/live/apA8xkeQ_RI?si=IfZbELmOyCrSWlXf. To learn more about HB 15 (2024 Regular Session) or HB 692 (2026 Regular Session), visit legislature.ky.gov.

The City of Columbia Planning and Zoning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall.

The purpose of the Public Hearing is to adopt the Plan Elements of the Comprehensive Plan.

All interested citizens will have the opportunity to give written or oral comments at the Public Hearing. Senior citizens are encouraged to attend and comment. Handicapped persons needing assistance or aid should contact the City Clerk’s office at 270-384-2501.

TDD Number: 1-800-247-2510

JAMESTOWN, KY (June 6, 2026) – A Russell County man has been found guilty on two charges stemming from a Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 investigation into a murder in Russell County.

On June 1, 2026, a four-day trial began in Russell County Circuit Court. On June 5, 2026, a jury found Lee Maynard, 21, of Russell Springs, guilty of Murder and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

The jury recommended life in prison with the possibility of parole for the Murder conviction, the maximum sentence allowable under Kentucky law. The jury also recommended 3 years in prison for the Tampering with Physical Evidence conviction. Furthermore, the jury recommended that the sentences for each charge run concurrently. Final sentencing is scheduled for July 2026. If sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole, Mr. Maynard would become eligible for parole after serving 20 years of his life sentence.

The charges stem from a death that occurred on April 5, 2023, on Fox Lane in Jamestown. The death investigation was led by Detective Zach Scott. Over the course of the investigation, Detective Scott determined that Lee Maynard had arrived at the residence of his half-brother, Charles Maynard, in Jamestown, where the two became involved in an altercation that resulted in the death of Charles Maynard. 

Detective Scott, along with numerous KSP Detectives, worked tirelessly throughout the investigation. KSP commends the 57th Judicial Circuit Commonwealth Attorney Matthew Leveridge and his staff for their dedication and efforts in the successful prosecution of this investigation.

Americans – including right here in Kentucky – are struggling to pay the bills due to rising prices brought on by bad federal policy, unlawful tariffs and the war with Iran. Families are having a hard time paying rent, buying groceries or filling up the gas tank, let alone the occasional dinner out or that summer vacation.

My goal as governor is to help Kentucky families. Every dollar I can put back in the pockets of Kentuckians is one dollar more for the things that matter. That’s why my administration filed an emergency regulation to freeze the gas tax at 26.4 cents per gallon ahead of an expected increase to 27 cents per gallon on July 1. It’s also why I signed an executive order to reduce the state gas tax by 10 cents, which delivered lower gas and diesel prices across the commonwealth.

My belief is that government is here to help our people and the state can, and will, make up any potential financial hit. Republican officials in the General Assembly disagree and oppose my efforts to save Kentuckians money at the pump. In fact, they called it “political pandering.” My question is, are they also saying that President Trump is pandering, since he is pushing this very step at the federal level?

I let the president know of the “pandering” accusations in a letter where I offered my support for his efforts to temporarily suspend the federal gas tax to provide relief to American families. I also encouraged him to resolve the conflict with Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz as quickly as possible.

You see, the price of gas isn’t partisan. It’s not Democrat or Republican. It’s just too high. I don’t agree with President Trump on most things. But I do agree that lowering soaring gas prices to help American families is the right thing to do. Playing politics isn’t.

This November, check and see: Did your state representative and senator put your budget first or theirs? Did they agree or disagree with me – or for that matter, with Donald Trump?

—Gov. Andy Beshear

Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum shared what took place at Monday's meeting...

On Friday, June 5, 2026, the Adair County Sheriff's Office responded to 12431 Edmonton Rd. to assist Probation and Parole Officers on a home visit.
 

Deputy Sheriff Emily Wall arrested Nathan Chandler, 45, of Columbia, KY and charged him with Persistent felony possession of a firearm and Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. Mr. Chandler was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Russell County Fiscal Court will meet in regular session this morning at 10:00amCT at the Russell County Courthouse. The meeting is open to the public.

We are incredibly grateful for your continued support of the 73rd annual WHAS Crusade for Children. This is a truly special cause, with 100% of the funds raised coming right back into our community to support local children through programs like our school system and other vital services.

We are proud to share that the Columbia–Adair County Fire Department raised a total of $63,850.00. This effort would not have been possible without the dedication of our Crusade Chairman, Phillip Richard, who put in countless hours behind the scenes, along with the hard work of our volunteer firefighters & their families. From the Pancake Breakfast and Chili Supper to the roadblocks, their commitment made a huge impact.

We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Department and Knifley Area Volunteer Fire Department for their continued partnership—both in raising funds and assisting with roadblocks this year.

Together, all three departments raised a combined total for Adair County of $67,431.00 for the WHAS Crusade for Children.

Your generosity continues to make a difference in the lives of children right here in Adair County. We couldn’t do it without you.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a shed style structure on property owned by Mitchellene Denton, fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters initiated an attack on the fire and was able to contain the fire to the structure. The cause of fire is unknown at this time.
 

There were two firefighters checked out by Adair County EMS but refused to be transported at the time of the incident. One person who resided on the property, Tim Foley, was injured as a result of the fire and was taken to RC Hospital for treatment. He was later transferred to Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, TN where he is being treated for burns and smoke in his lungs.

A total of 8 firefighters were on the on scene for approximately two hours.

Mutual Aid Provided by Russell Springs Fire Rescue

Agencies Assisting: Adair County E911 Center, Adair County Ambulance Service, and Taylor County RECC

by Duane Bonifer

COLUMBIA, KY. (06/07/2026) The Lindsey Wilson University community welcomed the first two installments of the Class of 2030 on June 5-6. More than 350 students, parents and family friends were on campus for the first two days of New Student Orientation, which will be held three more times this summer.

The half-day session introduces new students to campus life and allows them to finalize their enrollment for the 2026-27 school year, which includes completing a class schedule. The 2026 fall semester begins Aug. 24 for undergraduate students on the university's A.P. White Campus.

"Everyone at the university gets so excited for New Student Orientation days," said Lindsey Wilson Dean of Students Chris Schmidt. "You can see and feel the excitement from the incoming freshmen and their families. It's one of their many days at Lindsey they will never forget."

In addition to officials from the dean of students office, New Student Orientation included representatives from admissions, the business office, public safety, financial aid, residence life and the student success center.

As Associate Director of Admissions Hannah Peck '12 said, the teamwork that campus offices invest in the day helps create an environment that "provides such a hospitable and fun environment that allows incoming Blue Raiders a chance to be welcomed into the LWU family."

'Feels like home'

And according to the freshmen who attended the first two New Student Orientation sessions, that is exactly what the day accomplished.

"This place feels like home when you walk into it," said David Honaker '30 of Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

Honaker graduated from Central Hardin High School on May 23, and less than two weeks later he started his college years when he attended Lindsey Wilson's June 5 New Student Orientation session.

"It's a little scary and it also makes me a little happy," said Honaker, a John Wesley Scholar who will be a Christian ministries major and a member of the Blue Raiders' track and field program. "It's a new chapter in life, and sometimes you have to turn that chapter."

Madeline Helm '30 of Leitchfield, Kentucky, and Jaida Logsdon '30 of Clarkson, Kenutcky, said they also experienced some feelings of trepidation when they headed to the June 5 orientation session. They had graduated from Grayson County High School only a week earlier, on May 29, but they said that New Student Orientation had assuaged their concerns about transitioning to college life.

"It's different and a little scary," said Helm, who plans to major in nursing. "But it's a good feeling, too."

They two added that they were especially drawn to Lindsey Wilson by the plethora of opportunities offered on campus.

"There's a lot of opportunities you don't get at other schools," said Logsdon, who plans to major in human services and counseling.

In addition to previewing the place that will be their home for the next quadrennium, new students said that orientation gave them a clearer picture of what to expect from college life in Columbia.

Anderson Slinker '30 of the Chicken Chicken Bristle community in northern Metcalfe County, Kentucky, said the day answered all of her questions.

"Everyone is very open and informative," said Slinker, a Barren County High School graduate who plans to major in education and attended the June 5 orientation with her parents, Leea and Martin Slinker.

Get out of your room

A big reason the incoming students' questions were answered was because of the 12 New Student Orientation leaders, who were chosen from Lindsey Wilson's undergraduate student body. The orientation leaders introduced the new students to some of the university's rituals and campus customs, offered tips on how to have a successful first year in college and led games that introduced members of the Class of 2030 to one another.

Trevor Huff '29 of Bowling Green, Kentucky, said he was inspired to become an orientation leader because of how much he benefitted from the experience last summer as a new student.

"I really learned a lot," said Huff, a biology major and member of the men's bowling team who is also a Lindsey Wilson legacy. "Being an orientation leader has helped me become a better person because by doing this I'm recognizing everyone who helped me out."

Huff said the one piece of advice he was offering to all new residential students was to spend a minimal amount of time in their residence hall rooms.

"We have so much going on around campus," he said. "You don't really want to stay in your room."

Aniah Anderson '30 of Franklin, Kentucky, said she plans to follow that advice when she returns to campus in the fall as a theatre major.

"I'm really looking forward to being involved on campus and being part of the theatre program because it has such a good reputation," said Anderson, who graduated from Franklin-Simpson High School and attended the June 5 orientation with her grandmother Donna Smith and aunt Tina Hyman. "It was a really fun day. I got to meet people, and everyone was very welcoming."

Lindsey Wilson University is a vibrant liberal arts university in Columbia, Kentucky. Founded in 1903 and affiliated with The United Methodist Church, the mission of Lindsey Wilson is to serve the educational needs of students by providing a living-learning environment within an atmosphere of active caring and Christian concern where every student, every day, learns and grows and feels like a real human being. Lindsey Wilson offers 30 undergraduate majors, five graduate programs and a doctoral program. The university's 29 intercollegiate varsity athletic teams have won more than 120 team and individual national championships.

LWU New Student Orientation leaders are joined by university mascot Blue Raider Bob to welcome new students and their guests on Friday, June 5, 2026 in V.P. Henry Auditorium. More than 350 new students and their guests attended the first two sessions of the university’s orientation for new students, held June 5-6.

The Lakefest Celebration will be held Friday, July 3rd & Saturday, July 4th in Jamestown, KY...

UPDATE: WAVE News has learned the juvenile is 17-year-old Natalie Wilson of Russell Springs. She is the daughter of Jearmy "Hog" & Heather Wilson.

-----
Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers were requested by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office to respond to a two-vehicle injury collision, just before 10:30 A.M. CDT yesterday morning, on KY 206 in Adair County.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 17-year-old juvenile was traveling west on KY 206 in a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The juvenile crossed the centerline and entered the eastbound lane of KY 206 into the path of a 2007 Terex C13 concrete truck traveling east on KY 206, operated by Curtis Bell, 22, of Columbia.  The vehicles collided in a head-on manner.  
 

The juvenile was transported to TJ Sampson Columbia Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased by the Adair County Coroner. Curtis Bell was not injured during the collision.

KSP Post 15 Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Adair County Sheriff's Office, Adair County Fire/EMS, Adair County Coroner’s Office and the Kentucky State Highway Department.  Senior Trooper Dean Lunz is investigating the collision.

An accident this morning on Hwy 206 in Adair County has claimed the life of a 17-year-old Russell County teenager. The young lady died after reportedly hitting a concrete truck. No other details are available at this time.

Congratulations to Katelyn Bunch, Kristina Burton, and Chandler Cundiff on being sworn in by Judge Lisa Edwards as CASA volunteers serving Russell County! 

Thank you for stepping up to advocate for children in our community!

Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers arrested a Barren County woman on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 on several charges after a vehicle pursuit.

Just before 3:00pmCT on Wednesday, a KSP trooper attempted to perform a traffic stop on a 2016 GMC Terrain on KY 163 at the Metcalfe/Monroe County line for speeding. The vehicle did not stop when the trooper activated his emergency equipment, and a pursuit ensued. Another the trooper positioned ahead of the pursuit, deployed a tire deflation device on KY 163 in an attempt to stop the vehicle, which successfully hit a front tire. However, the pursuit continued on KY 163 until it reached Tompkinsville city limits, where the trooper terminated the pursuit. The vehicle continued traveling recklessly and at a high rate of speed south on KY 163 (North Main Street), and the trooper lost sight of it. At that time, the Tompkinsville Police Department (TPD) was notified to observe for the vehicle.

A short time later, TPD notified KSP that the vehicle had been involved in a collision at the intersection of KY 163 and Columbia Avenue near the Valero gas station. Troopers then responded to the area and launched an investigation into the collision. The investigation revealed that Amanda Sanchez, 36, of Cave City, had struck two vehicles on Columbia Avenue, causing one of them to strike a third vehicle. Two of the individuals in one vehicle were transported to the hospital with minor injuries and were later released.

Amanda Sanchez was arrested by Trooper Codie Ford and lodged in the Barren County Detention Center with the following charges:

• Speeding 26 MPH or more over
• DUI 2nd Offense
• Fleeing or Evading Police - 1st Degree (Motor Vehicle)
• Wanton Endangerment - 1st Degree (Police Officer) (2 Counts)
• Wanton Endangerment - 1st Degree 
• Driving DUI Suspended License
• Reckless Driving
• Failure to Wear Seatbelt &
• Improper Passing

Trooper Ford continues the investigation of the pursuit, and the collision remains under investigation by Trooper Dean Lunz.

Andrea Spears, 33, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested early Thursday morning by the RCSO of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Disregarding a Stop Sign, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

Judy Walters, 53, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested by the RCSO early Wednesday morning for Possession of Methamphetamine (2nd offense), Operating on a Suspended/Revoked Operators License, No/Expired KY Registration Receipt, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure of Owner to Maintain Insurance, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.
 

Both women were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Inmate: Judy Walters

Inmate: Andrea Spears

William Chumbley, 50, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested on Wednesday night by the RCSO and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operators License, No/Expired Kentucky Registration Receipt, Contempt of Court and Failure to Appear (Citation of Misdemeanor).

The arrest was made by R.C. Deputy Stone Bolin; Mr. Chumbley was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

FRANKFORT, KY (June 4, 2026) – Today (Thursday), Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development, work to remove dangerous drugs from Kentucky communities, technology updates to enhance 911 services, funding for local water infrastructure and housing, funding for student mental health, medical cannabis, and federal public assistance for the January winter storms. The Governor was joined by Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), who provided updates on the impacts at CHFS resulting from cuts by the General Assembly, as well as the Our Healthy Kentucky Home initiative. The Governor named Kentucky students selected as semifinalists for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
Gov. Beshear highlighted his announcement that U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co., one of the leading producers and marketers of moist smokeless tobacco, plans to build a new facility in Hopkinsville, where it would create over 200 new Kentucky jobs once operational.

The Governor highlighted continued momentum within the state’s distribution and logistics sector, as Abastos Wholesale, a specialized distributor and supply chain partner, will expand its Louisville operation with a $10.3 million investment, creating 20 new Kentucky jobs.

Today, Gov. Beshear announced continued momentum within the state’s speed-to-market and site development initiatives, as $750,000 was approved to support future job growth and investment in Floyd County through the state’s Kentucky Product Development Initiative.

Counterdrug Program and Drug Interdiction Plan
Today, Gov. Beshear was joined by members of the Kentucky National Guard and Kentucky State Police (KSP) to sign the annual drug interdiction plan for the Counterdrug Program. This plan serves as the blueprint for operations across all agencies involved in the Counterdrug Program, which works to remove dangerous drugs from Kentucky communities. The Counterdrug Program includes multiple federal, state and local agencies, including the Kentucky National Guard, KSP, the Homeland Security Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

During the federal fiscal year of 2025, this team seized more than 202 pounds of fentanyl, more than 3.6 million fentanyl pills, 4,136 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,750 pounds of cocaine and 43.9 pounds of heroin.

“The Counterdrug Program provides additional manpower, helicopter and communications support, investigative case analysis and prevention resources to our law enforcement partners and our community-based organizations. The program currently supports 13 federal, state and local law enforcement agencies,” said Brig. Gen. Bruce Bancroft, assistant adjutant general of the Kentucky National Guard. “The integration and partnerships created with the Kentucky State Police and our federal agencies have bolstered law enforcement capabilities and enhanced critical relationships across the entire commonwealth. We look forward to continuing to build upon these successes as we work together in making Kentucky a safer place for all of us.”

“Our message is clear: While recovery is possible here in Kentucky, those who seek to prolong this devastating epidemic will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” KSP Deputy Commissioner Col. Chad White said. “We promise to continue finding innovative ways to save lives and remove drugs from our streets so future generations have a safer Kentucky to call home, one free from the pain of addiction.”

Next Generation 911
Gov. Beshear announced that Team Kentucky is upgrading public safety technology with the statewide transition to Next Generation 911. This will modernize how emergency calls are handled, improving speed, accuracy and inter-agency collaboration across the 117 call centers in Kentucky. Benefits include allowing voice, text, photos and video calls from any compatible device; leveraging mapping technologies to route calls based on the precise physical location of the caller’s device; and allowing hearing- and speech-impaired individuals to have live text conversations and share media directly with dispatchers.

Team Kentucky has already successfully implemented this new technology at 19 call centers. Full implementation across all Kentucky counties is expected by the end of 2027. Amy Hess, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, joined the Governor for the announcement.

“This project’s mission is to improve the speed and accuracy of our emergency response for all Kentuckians and, in turn, save more lives,” said Hess. “Call centers that have already migrated to Next Generation 911 are already reporting benefits, including fewer spoofed calls, better location accuracy, higher call quality and faster data delivery. These efforts are all aimed at our ultimate priority, which is to keep Kentucky families safe.”

Funding for Water and Housing Infrastructure
The Governor announced three projects totaling $14.1 million that will improve water and housing infrastructure in the commonwealth.

• Cynthiana will receive over $12.3 million in loans through Team Kentucky’s Infrastructure Authority to help more effectively filter the city’s water. Nearly $7.5 million of these loans will be forgiven.
• Oldham County will receive $1 million through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to support a 72-unit apartment complex, Choice Landing Apartments in Crestwood. The complex will serve Kentuckians with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Down Syndrome of Southern Kentucky, in partnership with the Warren County Fiscal Court, will receive $850,000 through the CDBG program to build a new facility offering health, educational and social services to individuals with disabilities in Bowling Green.

Funding for Student Mental Health
The Governor announced that Kentucky Medicaid is awarding grants to improve mental health and wellness services for students in eight school districts through the SHINE KY local grant initiative. School districts receiving funding are in Bullitt, Clark, Henry, Jessamine, Johnson, Perry, Warren and Wolfe counties. This initiative is part of Expanded Access School Based Health Services, which allows schools to provide health services onsite to all students at no cost to families, regardless of insurance coverage.

General Assembly Cuts to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services
Dr. Stack provided an update on impacts to CHFS resulting from budget cuts made by the General Assembly. The Governor and his administration repeatedly warned the General Assembly about the painful impacts that would be felt by the cruel and senseless budget cuts, yet no action was taken by the legislature. Now, the state is forced to bear the outcome of these shortsighted decisions and the chronic defunding from the federal government, which is resulting in cuts across Team Kentucky’s departments of Community Based Services; Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities; and Medicaid Services. These are services that provide healthcare, foster care, support for food and more to our most vulnerable Kentuckians.

“These are services that we should be supporting. These are families that need help. We’ll do our best to provide every service that we can, but unfortunately, we can’t provide dollars that don’t exist,” said Gov. Beshear. “Members of my administration repeatedly warned the General Assembly about painful impacts that would be felt from their budget cuts or failure to increase funding for services that cost more every year as more families qualify. Action was not taken to correct the most concerning areas. Now our families are forced to bear the outcome of these shortsighted decisions.”

“No one in the commonwealth of Kentucky should go hungry,” said Dr. Stack. “No one in the commonwealth of Kentucky should go without needed healthcare or without the social services they need to help thrive in their lives. Healthier people make for healthier communities, make for people who are invested in their jobs, able to work and support their communities, and have a full and rich life. These are painful reductions that will have to be made. They’re going to hit some of our most vulnerable in our society. It breaks my heart to have to announce these things.”

Medical Cannabis
Tuesday, Gov. Beshear signed an executive order directing the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis to issue an emergency regulation further clarifying qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Kentucky law. With the clarification, 15 additional conditions are recognized, including sickle cell anemia, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s and terminal illness.

Public Assistance Approved for Communities Affected by January Storm
Gov. Beshear recapped his announcement that President Donald Trump and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have approved Public Assistance for at least 18 counties affected by the winter storm in January of this year. The severe weather event caused significant ice accumulation across the state, up to nine inches of snow in some areas and dangerously cold temperatures.

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. This month, the initiative focuses on men’s health. Dr. Stack discussed important aspects of men’s health, including preventative care, highlighting kdphcancerinky.ky.gov as a resource for cancer screenings; healthy eating; regular physical activity; and mental health, highlighting the National Institute of Mental Health as a good resource to help start your mental health journey.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
The Governor named Kentucky students selected as semifinalists for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. Twelve graduating high school seniors have been selected, see the full list here.

“I’m proud that these students are from all over Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “Congratulations to these seniors and thank you to all our educators. Congratulations on being this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.”

Winners from the open class:

• Flowers – Sharon Bradley
• Baked Foods – Sherry Redmon
• Photography – Gunnar Coe
• Painting – Tina Wilson
• Food Preservation – Lane Roberts
• Knit and Crochet – Christy Martin
• Quilts – Kathy Gossage
• Arts and Crafts – Tammy Pickett
• Home Furnishing – Heath Gossage
• Clothing and Textiles – Corrine Boger
• Agriculture – Keith Ellis

4-H Class

• Arts – Calli Godby
• Photography – Gunnar Coe
• Entomology – Gunnar Coe
• Home Environment – Cali Robertson
• Food – Anslee Hammond
• Horticulture – Loren Satterly
• Sewing – Maycee Harvell
• Needlework – Loren Satterly
• Wood Science – Cali Robertson
• County Heritage – Chase Robertson
• Forestry – Elle Satterly
• Geology – Elle Satterly

Congratulations to the Winners from 92.7 the WAVE!

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the 12 counties that were drawn at random for a post-election inquiry, and Adair County is one of them.

The draw and inquiries are Kentucky law.

Coleman said that the inquiries are one of the ways his office is trying to ensure the integrity of the Commonwealth’s elections.

The inquiries will be conducted by the Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations to determine whether any irregularities occurred during last month’s primary election.

After completing the investigations, DCI and the Attorney General’s Special Prosecutions Unit will present findings to a Grand Jury in each audited county.

An Adair County Grand Jury has returned indictments against eight individuals. Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

FRANKFORT, KY (June 2, 2026) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order directing Team Kentucky’s Office of Medical Cannabis to issue an emergency regulation further clarifying qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Kentucky law. With the clarification, 15 additional conditions are recognized, including sickle cell anemia, ALS, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s, terminal illness and more.

The Office of Medical Cannabis, the Team Kentucky Medical Cannabis Workgroup and the Board of Physicians and Advisors all previously made requests to the General Assembly to clarify the law, but no action was taken.

“The law is meant to provide a safe alternative form of pain relief for Kentuckians suffering, yet the law’s lack of clarity prevented too many people from receiving help. This step makes the law more clear,” said Gov. Beshear. “With the progress we’ve made to reduce overdose deaths and fight addiction, it’s important we continue to offer an alternative to dangerous and addictive opioids. This emergency regulation will help more Kentuckians reclaim their lives through safe, nonaddictive medical cannabis.”

With today’s clarification, terminal illness, sickle cell anemia, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, HIV, AIDS, Huntington’s disease, muscular dystrophy, cachexia or wasting syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, neuropathies, severe arthritis, fibromyalgia and glaucoma are now included under Kentucky law.

Joining Gov. Beshear to make the announcement was Dr. Linda McClain, a member of the Board of Physicians and Advisors, and Rebecca Seavers, president of the Sickle Cell Association of Kentuckiana and whose daughter and granddaughter suffer from the genetic disorder.

“I’ve had the privilege of being a part of this program from the beginning, the implementation, as well as the establishment of the program. The board’s mission is to ensure that all Kentuckians have safe and reliable access to medical cannabis. I’m very proud of the progress we’ve made toward that goal, however, more work is needed. Today’s announcement is a huge step in reducing, hopefully, the patient’s confusion as to whether their diagnosis meets the current list of conditions,” said Dr. McClain.

“Sickle cell causes sudden, excruciating pain anywhere the blood flows, for hours, days or even longer,” Seavers said. “Right now, in Kentucky and across the country, opioids are prescribed for sickle cell patients. I want to thank Gov. Beshear for taking this action that will provide sickle cell patients more safe options. Thousands of Kentuckians, the Sickle Cell Association of Kentuckiana and myself are proud to support this step.”

Also in attendance at the announcement was retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jared Bonvell. Bonvell has been a strong advocate for medical cannabis, knowing that it is a safe alternative for veterans like him who suffer from PTSD – a condition included since the law took effect in 2025.

“Really, it’s an expansion of access for folks. Anytime a law is written, those words mean something, and sometimes the people that write them don’t necessarily understand how limiting those words can be to a patient. So this executive order, and hopefully pending legislation, will increase that access,” said Bonvell.

For more information on qualifying conditions or to find a participating provider and begin the application process, visit KyMedCan.Ky.gov. 

Medical Cannabis Program
On June 14, 2022, Gov. Beshear issued an executive order creating the Team Kentucky Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee, which hosted multiple town hall forums to hear from Kentuckians on medical cannabis. The findings were released to the public in August 2022 along with a report summarizing that Kentuckians overwhelmingly supported medical cannabis.

Following the actions of the Advisory Committee, on March 31, 2023, Gov. Beshear signed Senate Bill 47, legalizing medical cannabis for Kentuckians beginning Jan. 1, 2025.

On April 17, 2024, Gov. Beshear signed House Bill 829 into law, which moved up the timeline for medical cannabis licensing in Kentucky by six months. The Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis began accepting applications from prospective businesses on July 1, 2024.

To date, Kentucky has 32 medical cannabis businesses up and running and has registered over 500 medical cannabis practitioners. More than 23,700 Kentuckians have been approved for medical cannabis cards.

Under KRS Chapter 218B, the Office of Medical Cannabis is responsible for implementing and administering the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program. The program has conducted a first round of approvals for licenses and will continue to conduct additional rounds as the program grows.

For more on Kentucky’s Medical Cannabis Program, visit kymedcan.ky.gov.