Lexington, Kentucky, November 12, 2025
At the Kentucky Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Preview Conference, business and legislative leaders in Lexington outlined key economic priorities, focusing on workforce development, housing, tax reform, education, infrastructure, legal liability reform, and healthcare solutions. The conference underscored the importance of collaboration and practical regulations to foster a competitive business environment in the state.
Key Priorities for Kentucky’s Economic Growth Unveiled
Business Leaders Plan Future Strategies at 2026 Legislative Preview
Lexington, Kentucky – On November 10, 2025, business and legislative leaders convened in Lexington for the Kentucky Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Preview Conference, outlining key priorities for the upcoming session of the Kentucky General Assembly.
Focus on Workforce Development and Housing
The Kentucky Chamber emphasized the need to address barriers hindering Kentucky’s economic potential, particularly in workforce development and housing. These areas are critical for enhancing the state’s competitiveness and supporting business growth. A skilled workforce is essential for attracting investment and fostering innovative enterprise within local markets.
Tax Reform and Economic Competitiveness
Building on previous tax reforms, the Chamber advocates for continued efforts to improve Kentucky’s business climate. This includes further tax reductions and policies aimed at fostering a more competitive environment for businesses operating within the state. Lower taxes can serve as a catalyst for growth, enabling companies to reinvest their savings into expansion and job creation.
Investments in Education and Infrastructure
Recognizing the importance of a skilled workforce, the Chamber calls for increased investments in education and infrastructure. These investments are essential for sustaining long-term economic growth and ensuring Kentucky’s competitiveness in the national and global markets. Well-structured educational programs and robust infrastructure can empower Kentucky’s workforce and attract new business ventures.
Legal Liability Reform and Healthcare Solutions
To maintain a favorable business environment, the Chamber supports legal liability reforms. These adjustments aim to mitigate excessive litigation that can stifle business innovation. Additionally, it advocates for sustainable healthcare solutions that balance the needs of businesses and the well-being of Kentuckians, creating a healthier workforce that enhances productivity.
Insights from Former Governors
Former Governors Ernie Fletcher and Steve Beshear participated in a discussion on “Civility in Leadership,” sharing experiences on fostering respect, trust, and collaboration in governance. They emphasized the importance of building trust and finding common ground across party lines to address Kentucky’s challenges effectively, reinforcing the idea that collaboration is essential for long-term progress.
Legislative Leaders’ Perspectives
House Speaker David Osborne highlighted Kentucky’s strong financial position, citing the record rainy-day fund and targeted infrastructure spending as evidence of the state’s fiscal health. He emphasized the need for practical regulations, especially concerning employer-based childcare, to enhance workforce participation. Senate President Pro Tempore David Givens concurred, noting that solutions to housing and childcare should be locally driven, with a focus on reducing regulatory burdens, particularly in rural areas.
Looking Ahead
The Kentucky Chamber remains committed to collaborating with the General Assembly to advance policies that support workforce development, housing, tax reform, education, infrastructure, legal liability reform, and sustainable healthcare solutions. These initiatives are vital for ensuring Kentucky’s future economic prosperity and competitiveness.
Upcoming Legislative Session
The 2026 Kentucky General Assembly is set to convene in January 2026. The Kentucky Chamber, along with other business and legislative leaders, will continue to advocate for these priorities to foster a robust and competitive business environment in the Commonwealth.
About the Kentucky Chamber
The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is a leading business advocacy organization dedicated to promoting policies that enhance Kentucky’s economic growth and competitiveness. Through collaboration with business leaders and policymakers, the Chamber works to create a favorable environment for businesses to thrive in the Commonwealth.
About the Kentucky General Assembly
The Kentucky General Assembly is the legislative branch of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, consisting of the Kentucky Senate and the Kentucky House of Representatives. It is responsible for enacting laws, approving the state budget, and addressing issues pertinent to the state’s residents and businesses.
About the Kentucky Chamber’s Legislative Preview Conference
The Kentucky Chamber’s Legislative Preview Conference is an annual event that brings together business and legislative leaders to discuss and outline key policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session. The conference serves as a platform for collaboration and dialogue on issues impacting Kentucky’s business community and economic future.
FAQ
- What are the main focuses of the Kentucky Chamber’s legislative priorities? The Kentucky Chamber emphasizes workforce development, housing, tax reform, education, infrastructure, legal liability reform, and sustainable healthcare solutions.
- When is the 2026 Kentucky General Assembly set to convene? The 2026 Kentucky General Assembly is set to convene in January 2026.
- What is the purpose of the Kentucky Chamber’s Legislative Preview Conference? The conference is an annual event that brings together business and legislative leaders to discuss and outline key policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session.
- Who were the former governors involved in the conference discussion? Former Governors Ernie Fletcher and Steve Beshear participated in the discussion on “Civility in Leadership.”
- What did House Speaker David Osborne highlight regarding Kentucky’s financial position? He cited the record rainy-day fund and targeted infrastructure spending as evidence of the state’s fiscal health.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Focus Areas | Workforce development, housing, tax reform, education, infrastructure, legal liability reform, and sustainable healthcare solutions. |
| 2026 Kentucky General Assembly | Set to convene in January 2026. |
| Legislative Preview Conference | Annual event for discussing policy priorities involving business and legislative leaders. |
| Involvement of Former Governors | Ernie Fletcher and Steve Beshear participated in discussions on leadership civility. |
| Kentucky’s Financial Health | Highlighted record rainy-day fund and targeted infrastructure spending. |
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- @KYSenateGOP (November 10, 2025): A panel on education highlights the supermajority’s work in growing Kentucky’s economy through investments in education and economic development. View on X
- @KyChamber (November 10, 2025): Discussions on fiscal outlook stress fiscal discipline, pro-growth tax reform, and long-term planning to sustain Kentucky’s budget and economy. View on X
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