Overview
- A new federal report finds Kentucky had 14 victims per 1,000 children in 2024, roughly twice the U.S. rate and fifth-highest nationally.
- Advocates and the governor are urging the General Assembly to boost funding, warning that a roughly $70 million gap could strain child advocacy centers and foster care.
- Hundreds of blue pinwheels planted at the Capitol marked Child Abuse Awareness Month, with each pinwheel symbolizing 17 Kentucky births to stress what is at stake for families.
- The state also reports nearly 40% of caregivers in abuse and neglect cases had substance use disorders, far above the roughly 25% national share.
- Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky leaders are pushing for clearer legal definitions and tougher penalties for technology-fueled grooming.