Live United Day brings advocacy and policy push to the capitol

State leaders, including Gov. Andy Beshear, join United Way for a day of advocacy

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The capitol rotunda was filled with state leaders, United Way members, and sponsors for the annual Live United Day, a day dedicated to advocating for policy changes in Kentucky.

Before United Way volunteers and staff met with policymakers, several state leaders expressed their gratitude for the organization’s work and outlined their legislative priorities.

“We need significant raises for all of our public school employees, so we make sure we have the very best in our classrooms,” said Gov. Andy Beshear.

Gov. Beshear sharing his commitment to expanding education opportunities, including advocating for universal pre-K.

“If we extend universal pre-K to every child in Kentucky, we’ll help 34,000 more Kentucky kids every single year,” he said, “So I’m going to keep working every single day I’m governor to make universal pre-K a reality for Kentucky’s children,” said Beshear.

Timothy Johnson, President and CEO of United Way of the Bluegrass, highlighted the group most impacted by potential legislation.

“For those who are assets-limited, income-constrained, and employed, A.L.I.C.E. represents hardworking individuals and families who are earning above the federal poverty level but yet still struggling to make ends meet,” Johnson said.

Advocates at the capitol are calling for affordable housing, improved access to health care, and expanded support for education and job training.