Kentucky Gov Beshear reallocates $9.1M to sustain senior meals amid budget shortfall

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced the reallocation of $9.1 million in state funds to support the Senior Meals program, addressing critical funding shortages that had forced reductions in meal deliveries to seniors. The funding was transferred from a Medicaid appropriation initially intended for a study that was not completed, providing a temporary lifeline to sustain meal services through the next fiscal year amid a $305 million state budget shortfall. Beshear emphasized that while this solution prevents immediate cuts, it is not a permanent fix and the program requires appropriate budgeting and consistent funding in the future. The funding shortfall was exacerbated by the early ending of COVID-19 emergency declarations, which reduced food assistance, as well as inflation and tariffs impacting the state's budget. Seniors who rely on these meals expressed relief at the announcement, though volunteers and recipients remain concerned about the program's long-term stability. Beshear also plans to have the Finance Cabinet review the Senior Meals program to ensure consistent practices and better understand funding needs moving forward.