Andy Barr

Barr Announces $1M Federal Grant to University of Kentucky to Build Critical Minerals Workforce

Position: The release announces a $1 million DOE PROSPECT Planning Prize award to the University of Kentucky to build a critical minerals workforce, and states that the congressman voted for the federal funding and that reliance on China for critical minerals should be reduced.

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) announced that the University of Kentucky (UK) has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to receive $1 million through the PROSPECT Planning Prize. The award will help UK train the next generation of mining engineers and critical minerals professionals. Barr voted for the federal funding that is being delivered to UK to boost this program. "Kentucky helped power this country for generations, and our state has a central role to play in America's energy and mineral independence," said Congressman Barr. "Right now, we depend far too much on China and other foreign adversaries for the critical minerals behind everything from our power grid to our defense systems. Fixing that starts with the workforce. I was proud to vote for the funding behind this program, and I congratulate the University of Kentucky on earning this award. UK's mining engineering program will help ensure the minerals we need are produced, processed, and recycled by American workers on American soil." "Meeting the energy needs of the future will take new ideas, strong partnerships and a workforce prepared to put those ideas into practice," said Zach Agioutantis, Ph.D., chair of mining engineering in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. "At UK, we are bringing those pieces together — giving students meaningful opportunities, while advancing solutions that benefit Kentucky and communities across the country." On October 26, DOE's Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI) selected 16 universities to share a total of $16 million through the PROSPECT Planning Prize. The prize supports universities in developing the skilled workforce required to produce, process, recover, and recycle critical minerals in the United States. Other selected schools include Colorado School of Mines, Penn State, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia University. The Planning Prize is part of DOE's broader $100 million Providing Opportunities for Specialized Education in Critical Technologies (PROSPECT) initiative. PROSPECT aims to double the number of graduates with mining, minerals, and related supply chain credentials within two years. Over the long term, it will support new curricula, modern teaching tools, scholarships, financial aid, and other incentives to grow these fields. The initiative also seeks to modernize critical minerals education with emerging technologies like automation, data science, advanced manufacturing, and systems engineering. The need is urgent. Enrollment in American mining programs has fallen by roughly 45 percent since 2015, and DOE estimates the nation will need approximately 6,000 new mining engineers over the next decade. Critical minerals and rare earth elements are essential to manufacturing energy infrastructure, defense systems, automobiles, and consumer electronics. UK's Leadership in Mining and Critical Minerals UK's Department of Mining Engineering is one of the oldest programs of its kind in the country and one of only 14 accredited mining engineering programs in the nation. Students train hands-on at UK's Experimental Mine, a one-of-a-kind facility for research and instruction in blasting and explosives, rock mechanics, ventilation, and mine safety. UK's Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) is a national leader in recovering critical minerals and rare earth elements from domestic sources, including Kentucky coal. Researchers have developed processes to extract valuable metals and minerals from coal byproducts in the Western Kentucky coalfields. They have also studied Eastern Kentucky, home to a significant domestic source of rare earth elements. UK is also a partner in DOE's nearly $25 million "Building the Mine of the Future" initiative, which will create a national proving ground for autonomous and connected mining technologies in underground and surface environments. Earlier this month, Assistant Secretary of Energy Audrey Robertson visited UK's campus to tour the Experimental Mine, meet with mining engineering students, and see CAER's critical minerals research firsthand. The PROSPECT Planning Prize is funded by CMEI and managed by the National Laboratory of the Rockies under the American-Made prize program. More information is available here. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/10/barr-announces-1m-federal-grant-to-university-of-kentucky-to-build-critical-minerals-workforce

USDA Delivers $8 Billion in Relief for American Farmers

Position: The release states the congressman voted for rural investment, ending the estate (death) tax on family farms, and expanded crop insurance, and says he is working to change the law to lower diesel fuel costs and expand Kentucky energy production. It also announces USDA relief funding for farmers.

You are the backbone of our Commonwealth and our nation's economy. You work long hours, take enormous risks, and help feed and fuel America. You deserve leaders in Washington who have your back. This session of Congress, I voted for the largest investment in rural communities in history, to end the death tax on almost 2 million family farms, and to expand crop insurance for our farmers. Right now, no issue is more important than lowering diesel fuel costs. I've been fighting to change the law and unleash Kentucky energy producers to create jobs and lower energy costs. In the meantime, I wanted to share today's announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture providing $8B in new relief for American farmers through the Harvest Fuel Relief Program. With rising input costs and market uncertainty continuing to squeeze our agricultural producers, this funding will provide much-needed relief to help farmers get through the harvest season. Here's what Kentucky farmers need to know: This new relief builds on President Trump's commitment to putting American farmers first, including $12 billion in previous bridge assistance and nearly $14 billion in payments through the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs. President Trump is delivering for rural America, and I will continue fighting alongside him to ensure Kentucky farmers have the resources they need to succeed. For more information about the program and how to prepare, visit USDA.gov/Farmers-First. Thank you for everything you do for Kentucky and our country. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/10/usda-delivers-8-billion-in-relief-for-american-farmers

Rep. Barr Applauds $43.6 Million Federal Grant Awarded to Kentucky-Based R. J. Corman

Position: The release applauds a $43.6 million federal CRISI grant awarded to R. J. Corman Railroad Company for freight rail track improvements across eight short line railroads in the southeastern United States, and notes Rep. Barr's letter of support for the application.

Lexington, KY — Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) applauded the announcement that R. J. Corman Railroad Company, headquartered in Nicholasville, Kentucky, has been awarded a $43.6 million federal grant through the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. The funding will support the company's Southeastern Short Line Freight Rail Track Improvement Project, representing a total investment of approximately $62.3 million in freight rail infrastructure across the southeastern United States. Congressman Barr advocated for R. J. Corman's successful grant application through a letter of support. The award highlights the important role Kentucky-headquartered companies play in strengthening America's transportation infrastructure, supporting domestic industries, and keeping American goods moving. Barr also recently welcomed U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to Kentucky to discuss regional transportation priorities. "R. J. Corman is a great Kentucky success story, and I'm proud to support this $43.6 million investment in strengthening our nation's freight rail infrastructure," said Congressman Barr. "Reliable freight transportation is critical to moving American-made goods, supporting our farmers and manufacturers, and keeping our regional economy competitive. I was proud to advocate for this project through a letter of support and bring Secretary Sean Duffy to Kentucky recently to discuss important regional transportation priorities. This investment will strengthen supply chains and help businesses across the Southeast get their products to market more safely and efficiently." The project will fund critical infrastructure improvements across eight short line railroads in the southeastern United States. While the rail improvements will take place outside Kentucky, the project will be led by R. J. Corman, a Kentucky-headquartered company with a longstanding history in the American railroad industry. The improvements will include replacing and rehabilitating aging rail, crossties, switches, ballast, grade crossings, and other track components to improve safety, reliability, and freight transportation efficiency. The participating railroads serve more than 120 shippers transporting agricultural products, manufactured goods, aggregates, chemicals, metals, energy products, and critical minerals. "Short line railroads provide essential connections between American businesses and the national freight network," said Justin Broyles, President and CEO of R. J. Corman Railroad Group. "This investment will allow us to strengthen the infrastructure that manufacturers, farmers, energy producers, and other businesses depend on every day. Improving these railroads means safer and more reliable freight transportation, stronger supply chains and better infrastructure to support American industry and economic growth." U.S. Congressmen James Comer (R-KY-01) and Hal Rogers (R-KY-05) also supported the project and recognized the role of Kentucky businesses in strengthening the nation's transportation network. "R. J. Corman is a great example of Kentucky ingenuity and the success that comes from hard work. I am proud to support this $43.6 million investment, which will help modernize critical rail infrastructure, strengthen our economy, and support good-paying jobs. Our farmers, manufacturers, and businesses depend on reliable transportation networks to move their products and reach new markets. This grant will build on Kentucky's economic strengths, create new opportunities, and help ensure our communities remain great places to live, work, and do business," said U.S. Congressman James Comer (R-KY-01). "The iconic red R. J. Corman trains moving through Kentucky and surrounding states are a reminder of the firm foundation that has been laid for our rail infrastructure and the bold investments required to keep America first. I was proud to support this important investment in our supply chain in Rural America, ensuring that our farmers and businesses have the infrastructure necessary for American-made deliveries," said U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY-05), Dean of the House. Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Nicholasville, Kentucky, R. J. Corman Railroad Company operates 19 short line railroads across 11 states. The company employs approximately 1,400 people in 24 states and provides railroad services including track construction, emergency response, switching operations, and signal design and construction. The federal award underscores the national reach of a Kentucky-founded business and its continued role in maintaining the infrastructure that American farmers, manufacturers, and businesses depend on. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/10/rep-barr-applauds-43-6-million-federal-grant-awarded-to-kentucky-based-r-j-corman

Barr Announces $190,476 FEMA Grant for Three Central Kentucky Fire Departments

Position: Congressman Barr states he voted to support federal funding for the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant program and highlights a $190,476 grant for a shared mobile cascade trailer serving three Central Kentucky fire departments.

VERSAILLES, KY — U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) announced that fire departments serving the City of Versailles, Anderson County, and the City of Frankfort have received a $190,476 federal grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Assistance to Firefighters Grant program to purchase a new mobile cascade trailer. The mobile cascade trailer will be shared among the three communities and will allow firefighters to refill their self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) air cylinders while responding to fires and other emergencies. The mobile system provides firefighters with an on-site source of breathable air, allowing crews to refill their SCBA cylinders during extended emergency operations. Congressman Barr voted to support federal funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which provides resources directly to fire departments and emergency response organizations across the country. "Our firefighters never hesitate to answer the call when their communities need them, and they deserve reliable equipment that helps them do their jobs safely," said Congressman Barr. "This $190,476 grant will give firefighters in Versailles, Anderson County, and Frankfort a critical resource they can share when responding to emergencies across Central Kentucky. I was proud to support this funding and will continue working to make sure our first responders have the tools they need to protect our communities." "Having the ability to refill our air packs on scene is a critical need for our firefighters, especially during longer emergency responses. This new mobile cascade trailer will make a real difference for our department, and we appreciate Congressman Barr's support for the funding that helped make it possible," said T.A. Rankin, City of Versailles Fire Chief. "Our departments work side by side all the time, and this is the kind of resource that benefits the entire area. Sharing this trailer between Anderson County, Versailles, and Frankfort means we'll have another important piece of equipment available when a major call requires all of us to work together," said Jimmy Robinson, Anderson County Fire Chief. "When firefighters are working an extended incident, having a reliable supply of breathing air on site is essential. This trailer will allow us to refill SCBA cylinders without taking crews or equipment away from the scene, helping us stay ready to respond for as long as we're needed. We're thankful for the investment in our first responders and the communities we serve," said Johnny Carpenter, City of Frankfort Fire Chief. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program provides funding directly to eligible fire departments and other emergency response organizations for critical equipment, protective gear, training, vehicles, and other resources that improve firefighter and public safety. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/10/barr-announces-190-476-fema-grant-for-three-central-kentucky-fire-departments

Barr Applauds President Trump for Securing Major U.S. Coal Export Commitment from China

Position: The release supports prioritizing American coal exports to China in trade negotiations and praises the commitment to import at least 10 million metric tons of U.S. coal in each of 2027 and 2028.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) applauded President Trump's announcement that China will import at least 10 million metric tons of American coal in 2027 and at least another 10 million metric tons in 2028. The commitment follows a congressional effort led by Barr and six other Members of Congress urging the Trump Administration to prioritize American coal in trade negotiations with China and expand access to the Chinese market for U.S. producers. The White House announced the commitment following President Trump's state visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. "President Trump delivered a major win for American coal workers, producers, and the communities that depend on them," said Congressman Barr. "I was proud to lead six of my colleagues in strongly advocating for American coal to be a priority in our trade negotiations with China, and this commitment will expand opportunities for Kentucky miners, producers, railroads, manufacturers, and coal communities across the country. American coal is an abundant, reliable resource and an important economic asset, and I thank President Trump for continuing to advocate for American energy and American workers." Promises made, promises kept. Barr was joined in the congressional effort by Representatives Hal Rogers (R-KY-05), Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Carol Miller (R-WV-01), Randy Weber (R-TX-14), Barry Moore (R-AL-01), and Riley Moore (R-WV-02). "Eastern Kentucky coal has powered our country for generations, and expanding overseas markets is good news for our miners, producers, and communities," said U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers. "I was proud to join Congressman Barr in urging the Administration to put American coal on the table in trade discussions with China. This commitment creates new opportunities for American energy producers, and I appreciate President Trump's continued efforts to open markets for our coal and support the men and women who produce it." "I applaud President Trump for prioritizing increased U.S. coal purchases by China in recent trade negotiations," said U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith. "As an advocate for Southwest Virginia coal mining, I support President Trump's negotiating tactics to have China purchase more American coal. This move will help generate economic growth, protect coal jobs and provide certainty for coal operators." "American coal is an abundant, reliable source of energy that supports thousands of jobs and helps keep our economy moving," said U.S. Congressman Barry Moore. "President Trump has made strengthening American energy a priority, and American workers and businesses should have the opportunity to compete on a level playing field and sell our high-quality coal in markets around the world." "I was proud to join Congressman Barr in urging the Administration to make expanding access for U.S. coal a priority in our trade negotiations with China, and I'm grateful that President Trump succeeded in doing exactly that," said U.S. Congressman Riley Moore. "President Trump's commitment to opening foreign markets for American exports is another example of him always putting Americans first." National coal industry leaders also welcomed the agreement and its potential to strengthen U.S. coal exports. "The agreement reached between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping represents an important step toward reviving market access for American coal and strengthening U.S. energy exports. China's commitment to import at least 20 million metric tons of U.S. coal over the next two years would provide a welcome return to our bilateral energy exchange as well as certainty for American producers and exporters," said National Mining Association President and CEO Rich Nolan. "The National Mining Association appreciates President Trump's leadership in prioritizing American coal during the most recent U.S.-China discussions, as well as the engagement of U.S. Representative Andy Barr and other congressional leaders who highlighted the effects of trade barriers on U.S. production and jobs. These efforts will help strengthen America's important coal industry, support mining and transportation jobs, and reinforce the nation's role as a reliable energy supplier to the world." "This announcement underscores the importance of maintaining strong international markets for American coal. We commend U.S. Congressman Andy Barr and his colleagues for advocating on behalf of an industry that supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs and contributes to energy security, economic growth, and industrial development," said Emily Arthun, CEO of the American Coal Council. "Whether used to generate electricity, produce steel, or support manufacturing, American coal remains a strategic asset. Expanded export opportunities strengthen our coal communities and help ensure that American resources remain competitive on the global stage." "Congressman Andy Barr has been a tireless champion for coal. His leadership in expanding international markets for American coal creates new opportunities for producers, miners, and coal communities. We appreciate Congressman Barr's continued commitment to our industry," said Sam McKown, President of the Kentucky Coal Association. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/10/barr-applauds-president-trump-for-securing-major-u-s-coal-export-commitment-from-china

Congressman Andy Barr Announces $160,180 FEMA Grant for Millers Creek Fire Rescue

Position: The release announces a $160,180 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant for Millers Creek Fire Rescue to replace breathing equipment, and states that Congressman Barr supported the grant application and supports federal funding for the AFG program.

Millers Creek, KY— U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) announced that the Millers Creek Fire Rescue has been awarded $160,180 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program to replace critical breathing equipment used by firefighters responding to emergencies. The funding will allow the Rescue to purchase 16 new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) packs, replacing all of its current packs. Firefighters rely on SCBA equipment to provide breathable air while operating inside burning buildings and other hazardous environments. The grant will also fund a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) pack, which can provide emergency air to a firefighter who becomes trapped, injured or otherwise unable to immediately exit a fire. Congressman Barr submitted a letter supporting Millers Creek Fire Rescue's application for the grant and supported federal funding for the AFG program. "Every time our firefighters answer the call, they put their own safety on the line to protect their neighbors," said Congressman Barr. "This investment will ensure the firefighters at Millers Creek have reliable, lifesaving breathing equipment when they enter a burning building. I was proud to support their application, and I will continue fighting to make sure Kentucky's first responders have the resources they need to safely serve our communities." "Replacing our SCBA packs has been a major need for our department, and this grant will make a real difference for our firefighters. We appreciate Congressman Barr's support throughout the process and his help in making sure departments like ours have the equipment we need to do our jobs safely," said Chad Neal, Millers Creek Fire Rescue Chief. This is the second consecutive year Millers Creek Fire Rescue has secured AFG funding with Congressman Barr's support. Last year, the department received $83,238 to purchase personal protective equipment, including new turnout gear worn by firefighters when responding to fires. Barr also submitted a letter supporting that grant application. The AFG program provides funding directly to eligible fire departments and other emergency response organizations for critical equipment, protective gear, training and other resources that improve firefighter and public safety. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/9/congressman-andy-barr-announces-160-180-fema-grant-for-millers-creek-fire-rescue

Barr Applauds Trump EPA Action to Unleash American Energy

Position: The release supports the EPA's repeal of Biden-era greenhouse gas regulations on coal- and natural gas-fired power plants and further elimination of remaining federal power-sector greenhouse gas rules, arguing these actions lower energy costs and restore coal jobs.

Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) applauded President Donald Trump and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin for taking historic action to roll back burdensome regulations on America's power sector and unleash reliable, affordable American energy. The EPA finalized the repeal of Biden-era greenhouse gas regulations on coal- and natural gas-fired power plants and announced additional action aimed at eliminating remaining federal greenhouse gas regulations on the power sector. The EPA has described the broader effort as the largest power-sector deregulatory action in U.S. history. The agency estimates its rollback of Biden-era power plant regulations will save Americans approximately $310 billion, while eliminating remaining greenhouse gas-related power plant regulations is projected to save companies an additional $370 million in direct compliance costs. "Kentuckians have been paying high electric bills and losing energy jobs in our communities because of Barack Obama and Joe Biden's war on Kentucky coal," said Congressman Barr. "Today's historic decision will put us closer to ending the war on coal, bringing back Kentucky coal jobs, and lowering energy costs for Kentuckians across the Commonwealth. I'll keep working with President Trump, Administrator Zeldin, and national leaders to unleash Kentucky coal and make American energy dominance permanent." "For over 15 years, the Obama and Biden administrations implemented a war on coal to destroy reliable and affordable energy. The Trump Administration has come in to protect American energy and to make sure you can afford to keep the lights on," said EPA Administrator Zeldin. "Americans will see a decrease in electricity prices, but this is just the beginning. We are working to go even further so that American energy can be fully unleashed. Realizing the full potential of American energy means more jobs, lower prices, and a more prosperous America." "The Trump administration is saving Americans hundreds of millions of dollars through common sense energy solutions that put an end to the Biden administration's disastrous Green New Scam policies enacted at the cost of our nation's energy security and future," said Chairman of the National Energy Dominance Council and DOI Secretary Burgum. "This necessary reversal restores efficiency to our energy sector and allows our vital resources to be used for the benefit of the American people. Under President Trump, this administration will continue reversing course on out-of-touch Obama and Biden-era policies by unleashing American energy and securing our nation's energy independence for generations to come." "The war on coal has driven up energy costs for families in Kentucky and across the country. Kentucky coal producers stand ready to lower costs, create good-paying jobs and keep America's lights on," said Sam McKown, President of the Kentucky Coal Association. "We commend President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for taking this important action, and we know Congressman Andy Barr will continue fighting in Washington to protect Kentucky coal and to support reliable and affordable energy." Alliance Resource Partners also released this statement, "Alliance Resource Partners applauds the groundbreaking regulatory actions announced today and commends the bold leadership of the Trump administration. Today's actions help to remove senseless regulatory burdens that were forcing the premature closure of critical power infrastructure. Protecting the electric generating fleet is a national security priority and the key to ensuring affordable and reliable power for Kentucky and the nation." EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the Trump Administration's actions are designed to protect American energy production and lower electricity costs for families and businesses. The repeal is also expected to remove regulatory barriers facing existing coal-fired power plants and the construction of new natural gas generation as electricity demand continues to grow nationwide. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/9/barr-applauds-trump-epa-action-to-unleash-american-energy

Barr Hosts CMS Administrator Oz in Lexington, Oz Confirms Rural Hospitals are Eligible for RHTP funds

Position: Congressman Barr asserts that Kentucky rural hospitals are eligible for Rural Health Transformation Program funding and urges Governor Beshear to establish a transparent process allowing rural hospitals to compete for those funds.

Lexington, KY — Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr welcomed Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz to Kentucky to meet with doctors and medical providers in Lexington. Prior to the meeting with physicians, Administrator Oz confirmed that Kentucky rural hospitals are eligible to receive funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) funding. Governor Andy Beshear falsely claimed that rural hospitals were ineligible to receive funding from the RHTP program administered by CMS. Congressman Barr challenged Beshear to start using this money to rural hospitals in a letter on August 25. Barr also pointed to CMS guidance and states including Oregon, Georgia, and Minnesota that are directing Rural Health Transformation dollars toward rural hospitals. "Let me be clear: Kentucky can use Rural Health Transformation Program funding to support its rural hospitals," said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. "CMS guidance allows states to partner with hospitals and other health care providers and direct these resources toward strengthening rural care. I urge the Governor to focus his energy on putting these resources to work for the people of Kentucky." "Administrator Oz's visit should put this debate to rest, Kentucky can and should be using RHTP money for rural hospitals," said Congressman Barr. "Rural hospitals are eligible. Now, Governor Beshear needs to establish a transparent process that gives our rural hospitals the opportunity to compete for these funds and get to work." Congressional Republicans created the 5-year $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program to invest in rural health care across America. Kentucky received $212.9 million for the first year of the program. Barr has also worked with the Kentucky Hospital Association to strengthen rural hospitals, including helping preserve state-directed payments that resulted in an additional $5.2 billion for Kentucky rural hospitals. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/9/barr-hosts-cms-administrator-oz-in-lexington-oz-confirms-rural-hospitals-are-eligible-for-rhtp-funds

Barr Calls Out Beshear Over Inaccurate Rural Hospital Claims

Position: Rep. Barr calls on Governor Beshear to explain why his administration's $212.9 million rural health plan does not identify or prioritize the 35 Kentucky hospitals Beshear has said would close due to H.R. 1, and argues the Sheps analysis did not conclude those hospitals would close.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06) called on Governor Andy Beshear to explain why his administration's $212.9 million federal rural health plan does not clearly identify or prioritize the 35 Kentucky hospitals Beshear repeatedly claimed would close because of H.R. 1. In a letter to Governor Beshear, Barr highlighted the discrepancy between the Governor's repeated public warnings and his administration's recently announced plan for $212.9 million in federal funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program. For months, Beshear has told Kentuckians that 35 rural hospitals were at risk because of the legislation. On June 23, 2025, he stated that "35 rural hospitals in Kentucky will close." Days later, Beshear warned that "35 hospitals are under the threat of closing, stripping care from families, cutting jobs and crippling local economies." He later claimed Congress had voted to "close 35 rural hospitals in our state" and has continued repeating these claims dozens of times. However, the Sheps Center analysis associated with the 35-hospital figure never concluded that 35 Kentucky hospitals would close. The analysis identified financially vulnerable hospitals from across the country but did not conclude that those hospitals would close because of H.R. 1. Senate Democrats later used their own selected criteria to identify 35 Kentucky hospitals as being at increased risk, but neither the Sheps analysis nor the Senators' list concluded that those hospitals would close. The analysis was also conducted before the final bill became law and did not account for subsequent changes to the final law, including the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program. "The Rural Health Transformation Program gives Governor Beshear the resources to protect rural hospitals," Rep. Barr said. "If 35 hospitals are truly on a path toward closure, as Governor Beshear repeatedly claims, why doesn't his plan prioritize those hospitals and reinforce them with the hundreds of millions of dollars that Congressional Republicans provided his administration in July of last year? If he stands by that claim, why doesn't his plan reflect it?" Congressional Republicans created the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program to help rural providers navigate the Medicaid reforms and preserve access to care. Kentucky has now received $212.9 million in first-year funding through that program. The law also reforms Medicaid to strengthen eligibility and program integrity while putting the program on a more sustainable fiscal path. Importantly, the reforms do not eliminate Medicaid funding or stop its growth. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, federal spending on Medicaid and CHIP is still projected to rise from $668 billion in 2026 to $892 billion in 2036, an increase of roughly one-third. With Kentucky now receiving $212.9 million specifically to strengthen rural health care, the Beshear administration still has not explained how that funding will address the 35 hospitals the Governor repeatedly warned were at risk. Its plan does not identify those hospitals, specify how much funding they will receive or explain how its five initiatives would prevent the closures and healthcare job losses he predicted. Barr is requesting that the Beshear administration: Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/8/barr-calls-out-beshear-over-inaccurate-rural-hospital-claims

Barr Delivers for Rural America with 2026 Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) stood with Kentucky farmers and voted to pass H.R. 7567—the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026—a comprehensive, five-year reauthorization of critical food and agriculture programs that provides long-term certainty for America's farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. This legislation delivers stability and predictability for producers navigating rising input costs, global competition, and market volatility. The bill strengthens the farm safety net, expands access to credit, and enhances risk management tools to help America's agricultural community plan, invest, and grow. "Under President Trump's leadership, the Big Beautiful Bill ended the death tax on almost two million family farms, expanded crop insurance for farmers, and provided the largest investment ever in rural America," said Congressman Barr. "The Farm Bill expands on the largest tax cut in American history by delivering the tools, certainty, and support that our farmers need to thrive." Additionally, the farm bill builds on prior reforms by improving accountability within nutrition programs, including stronger safeguards to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in SNAP while encouraging workforce participation and responsible spending of taxpayer dollars. The bill further promotes active forest management to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires and increase domestic timber production, helping address construction costs and strengthen supply chains. This legislation marks a significant step forward in strengthening America's agricultural economy and rural communities. The Farm Bill passage will ensure Kentucky remains a national leader in agricultural innovation, production, and opportunity for future generations. Permalink: https://barr.house.gov/2026/4/barr-delivers-for-rural-america-with-2026-farm-bill