Government

Republicans say they’ll have to adapt to any potential federal funding cuts.

Chief Justice Debra Lambert said the judicial branch faces “serious challenges” when attracting and retaining qualified employees. 

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump walked back his administration’s plan to partially restore November food benefits during the ongoing government shutdown, saying on social media that payments through the SNAP would resume only when Democrats agree to reopen the government.

Mayor James R. Knight Jr.'s decision surprised council members who heard him caution against a tax cut two months ago.

The emergency funds, distributed through Feeding Kentucky’s network, are meant to provide short-term relief as demand surges statewide — though advocates note the aid can’t match the scale of federal support, which typically covers nine meals for every one provided by food pantries.

Following court orders to resume payments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will use $4.65 billion in contingency funds to cover roughly half of November’s SNAP benefits — but the money could take weeks or months to reach recipients.

Even as Kentuckians brace for delayed or reduced SNAP payments amid the ongoing federal shutdown, new federal rules are taking effect that expand who must meet work and reporting requirements to keep their benefits. Starting Nov. 1, most adults ages 18 to 64 — including veterans, the homeless, and former foster youth — must now document at least 80 hours of work or job training each month.

The order ensures that funding for the SNAP program continues to be available despite the shutdown.

East Construction Co. brought the building down in less than two hours Thursday morning.

Food banks are already feeling the pressure.