KentuckyHB 5762026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

AN ACT relating to workforce investment.

Sponsored By: Robert Duvall (Republican)

Signed by Governor

AppropriationsArea Development DistrictsCitiesCountiesEconomic DevelopmentEffective Dates, EmergencyFundsLocal GovernmentState AgenciesWorkforce

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

New grants to recruit workers and students

The law creates the Kentucky Talent Recruitment Grant Program run by the Cabinet for Economic Development. Counties, cities, Kentucky public‑service entities, and 501(c)(3) or (6) nonprofits can apply. Projects may fund household relocation from outside Kentucky, retention of Kentucky students, or targeted marketing. An eligible applicant can receive up to $500,000. For relocation or student retention projects, 50% is paid at signing and the other 50% after the recipient meets 50% of its household or student goal. The Cabinet sets the rules, processes applications, and sends them to the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority for approval.

Talent fund splits money by purpose

The law creates a fund in the State Treasury to pay these grants. Money can come from state appropriations, gifts, grants, federal funds, and other sources. Deposits are split: 50% for relocation, 25% for Kentucky student retention, and 25% for targeted marketing. Up to 5% each year may cover program administration. Unspent money does not expire and carries forward to the next year.

Grant match, reports, and penalties

Applications must list at least one eligible project and give a full cost breakdown. Applicants must provide a 20% local match. Cash, local investments, or in‑kind donations count. Regional partners may combine contributions to meet the 20% match. To apply again, a prior project must have met its household recruitment goal. Approved recipients must report twice a year on metrics, awards, fund balances, and policy ideas. Misuse of funds or breaking the rules triggers forfeiture and repayment of the full award.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Robert Duvall
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Steven Rudy
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 200 • No: 13

House vote • 3/31/2026

passed

Yes: 79 • No: 10

Senate vote • 3/25/2026

3rd reading, passed

Yes: 38 • No: 0

House vote • 3/12/2026