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Beshear Asks Lawmakers for Tax Code Reform in Order to Help Fund Education

In his seventh state of the Commonwealth address, Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear told lawmakers that he will seek to reinvest in education, while also urging the General Assembly to reform the state's tax code.

The nearly 50-minute speech touched upon a variety of topics, including the state’s implementation of the federal Affordable Care Act, gains in auto manufacturing and the implementation of new education standards.

In stressing his latest priority, Beshear said that he would make cuts to other programs in order to  reinvest in education. To make up some of the funds, the governor pleaded with lawmakers to act on tax reform this year.

“I realize that tax modernization is a sensitive topic, especially in an election year. But the people elected us to tackle difficult issues. So engage with me. I ask you to engage with me on a core weakness that is keeping the Commonwealth from reaching its potential.”

Beshear offered few details on the kind of changes he wants to see in the tax code.

After the speech, Senate President Robert Stivers said he will need specifics in order to have a discussion on the issue.

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