Gov. Matt Bevin is taking requests to remove state regulations, which he says prevent businesses from relocating to Kentucky.
Bevin’s office has set up a website, RedTapeReduction.comwhere people can “report a reg” and describe how the policy is “hurting you/your business.”
In a video announcing the initiative, Bevin said removing regulations will make Kentucky more attractive to businesses looking to relocate.
“If they’re going to leave somewhere else we want them to exit to Kentucky. One of the things that would prevent that from happening is the amount of regulation,” he said, standing next to a sign that says “Exit To Kentucky.”
Bevin estimated that there are 4,500 regulations in Kentucky.
“That’s too many, this is a state where we want people to come for business, for enjoyment of life, etcetera,” he said.
Bevin also sent an email to state workers requesting they report regulations.
“As a state employee, you have firsthand knowledge of regulations that are unnecessary, outdated, poorly written or too complex,” Bevin said in the email. “This is your chance to help us identify those regulations and then help us do something about them.”
Brian Clark, executive director of the Kentucky Petroleum Marketers Association, applauded the governors’ initiative but didn’t have any specific regulations he’d like to see removed.
“If our regulatory requirements stifle growth or impede those day-to-day operations but don’t add any tangible value, then that kind of creates an unhealthy business climate,” Clark said.
The KPMA is a trade association that represents about 150 petroleum marketers and distributors in the state.
In a video released by the governor’s office, Clark said the amount of time and money spent staying “in a compliance mode” is burdensome for businesses.
“What I think we’re talking about is the ability to actually stay in business working off of industry that’s very competitive and provides an absolute service to the infrastructure of our state,” Clark said in the video.
Clark emphasized that his organization is still concerned about safety for employees, the community and the environment.
The initiative is also supported by Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Kentucky Retail Federation, the state chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business and Associated General Contractors of Kentucky
Bevin’s press secretary Amanda Stamper said the governor didn’t have any specific regulations he would like to see removed.