Kentucky Auditor Allison Ball has filed a lawsuit against Governor Andy Beshear, challenging the administration’s refusal to implement a law passed unanimously in 2024 to support relatives caring for children removed from unsafe homes. The law, which would allow kinship caregivers to be paid via foster care payments, remains unfunded. Beshear says the money isn’t there and cites a $20 million shortfall. Auditor Ball contends that the state constitution mandates the governor to enforce enacted laws, regardless of funding constraints. The lawsuit also accuses the administration of obstructing her office’s investigation into the law’s implementation. With approximately 55,000 Kentucky children in kinship care, advocates argue that the law’s delay exacerbates their vulnerability. The question remains whether the auditor has legal standing in the case.