U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) has announced the allocation of over $11 million in federal funding for Kentucky agriculture and rural communities as part of the final FY 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Conference Report. Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in shaping this legislation, which President Trump signed into law.
A significant portion of this funding—$10 million—will go to the University of Kentucky and USDA Agricultural Research Services (ARS) Forage-Animal Production Unit. The money will be used to build a new agricultural research laboratory at the university, following previous federal support secured by Senator McConnell for this project in FY 2020.
“This federal investment marks a major step forward for agricultural research and innovation at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture,” said Senator McConnell. “I was proud to secure this funding on behalf of UK, which will support agricultural research vital to our farmers and rural communities.”
University President Eli Capilouto added, “We are deeply grateful to Senator McConnell for his continued leadership and steadfast support of Kentucky agriculture. This investment strengthens a decades-long partnership between the University of Kentucky and the USDA Agricultural Research Service — one that has yielded innovations vital to our state’s signature industries, from beef and equine production to the emerging hemp economy. With this funding, we can continue developing science-based solutions that advance the productivity and profitability of Kentucky farms and improve the livelihoods of those who sustain them.”
Ohio County Healthcare will receive $1.35 million as part of its Hospital Infrastructure Improvement Project. The funds will be used for critical upgrades such as replacing the main hospital roof in Hartford, restructuring patient care areas, and updating equipment.
“Ohio County Healthcare is a vital resource for tens of thousands of residents who depend on it for quality medical care, and it provides important jobs and health benefits to many families in our region,” said Senator McConnell. “These much-needed infrastructure improvements will ensure the hospital remains safe, reliable, and capable of delivering prompt emergency care when it’s needed most.”
Shellie Shouse, CEO of Ohio County Healthcare, commented: “As a rural Critical Access Hospital, we are deeply committed to providing high-quality care to our neighbors—many of whom face economic hardship and limited access to essential health services. Senator McConnell’s continued support of OCH is not just appreciated; it is vital. Without it, our ability to safeguard the health and well-being of our community would be severely compromised.”
The FY 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Conference Report also includes several other provisions advanced by Senator McConnell:
– It closes what has been called an “intoxicating hemp loophole,” prohibiting unregulated THC products while preserving non-intoxicating CBD and industrial hemp items.
– The report highlights White Oak forest conservation efforts due to their ecological role and economic importance—particularly supporting Kentucky’s bourbon industry—and encourages expanded work by relevant agencies.
– It creates a dedicated budget line within USDA APHIS for equine health research instead of grouping horses with other animals.
– The report directs HHS and USDA to use only findings from the National Academies when updating alcohol consumption guidelines in 2025; this responds to concerns about reliance on potentially biased sources.
