Gov. Beshear Signs Bills That Support Cancer Screenings, Economic Growth and Aim To Combat Antisemitism
Another bill adds protections for contractors and subcontractors
FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 2, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear has taken additional action by signing four more pieces of legislation that do more to support Kentucky families, communities, businesses and universities.
“Today, I was proud to sign a bill that will help more Kentuckians get lifesaving colon cancer screenings,” said Gov. Beshear. “Through these new laws, we are also doing more to support our local communities in attracting new jobs and more visitors, as well as combatting antisemitism at our Kentucky colleges and universities.”
Gov. Beshear signed the following bills, which will become law on their effective dates:
House Bill 421 requires health insurance plans to cover colonoscopies and other exams to detect colon cancer. The Governor said, “Sixty percent of colon cancer deaths could be prevented through regular screenings. Think about how many Kentuckians could live healthy lives if they just get an exam. And with this legislation, even more Kentuckians will have access to these exams.”
House Bill 606 supports job and tourism growth by allowing local governments to create special taxing districts to support regional economic development projects and establishes a sales tax incentive to support entertainment events.
Senate Bill 76 increases the threshold for the creation of escrow accounts for real estate improvement contracts, which will help contractors and subcontractors receive payments they are owed.
Senate Joint Resolution 55 directs Kentucky colleges and universities to implement policies to address antisemitism. The Governor received a letter from 13 members of the Kentucky Antisemitism Task Force, which the Governor created in 2023. Signatories include the executive director and board members of the Jewish Federation of the Bluegrass and the president and CEO and board members of the Jewish Federation of Louisville. The members wrote that they are lending their support to the resolution because it requires Kentucky universities to inform all students, and not just Jewish students, of their rights and protections under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It also tasks universities with collecting data on hate crimes regarding antisemitism and discrimination in general.
The 2025 regular session concluded on Friday, March 28.
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