AN ACT relating to economic development.

This bill amends Kentucky law to update gender-neutral language in the appointment process for the Secretary of the Cabinet for Economic Development. It requires the board to conduct a nationwide search, submit three candidates to the Governor, and allows the Governor to reject the list and request additional names. The Secretary must have significant experience and an established reputation as an economic development professional. The change affects how the Secretary is selected and serves at the pleasure of the board rather than a fixed term.