Associated Press

The Associated Press is reporting that Rockcastle County voters have rejected  a packaged liquore proposal, by nearly a 2 to 1 margin. According to WYMT-TV in Hazard, the issue drew a strong voter turnout.

Tobacco companies will be required to report the levels of dangerous chemicals found in chew, cigarettes, and other products under the latest rules designed to tighten regulation of the tobacco industry.  The Associated Press reports that preliminary guidance issued by the Food and Drug Administration marks the first time tobacco firms will be required to report quantities of 20 chemicals associated with lung disease, cancer, and other health problems. 

The Kentucky Senate has approved a two year, $19 billion state budget that includes sharp cuts to most goverment programs and agencies. The plan was approved this afternoon, by a vote of 36 to 1 and will now go the the House of Representatives for consideration.

The Associated Press is reporting that a medical clinic and shelter in Pikeville have been closed until early April, while owners attempt to treat the entire facility for a bedbug infestation. Westcare Kentucky Vice President Leslie Balonick says the bugs were found in a room in the men's dormitory and an exterminator advised closing the Pikeville clinic for the next ten days. Exterminators will use that time to clean out the buildings.

Negotiators for the Senate and House have started talks to work out disagreements on spending priorities for a new state budget in Kentucky. A group of Representatives and Senators held their initial meeting this morning on the two year, 19.5 billion dollar budget.