(Frankfort, KY)- Governor Matt Bevin is no fan of government regulation. The former hedge fund manager and heir to a Connecticut bell factory, Bevin has dealt with government oversight his whole career in the private sector. As Kentucky's governor, he has the opportunity to strike back against what he calls "red tape of excessive and complex regulatory burdens" that hamper business growth in the Commonwealth.

In a press release this morning, he said "As a business owner, I understand firsthand how difficult it can be for a new or growing business to be aware of, understand and comply with every government regulation," Gov. Bevin said. "While some regulations are very necessary and protect the public safety, others can stifle economic growth, impose unnecessary costs on businesses and impede private sector investment. These costs all get passed through to the consumer. I constantly hear from business owners that confusing government mandates and red tape are huge challenges for them. There are more than 4,500 state regulations on the books in Kentucky, and only 15 to 20 percent of them have ever been reviewed for effectiveness or ongoing need. This suffocating red tape is a problem that must be fixed and, with the help of all Kentuckians, we intend to do just that."

The Governor announced what is being called the "Red Tape Initiative" an effort to review regulations with the help of business, state employees and the public. He directed each of his cabinet secretaries to undertake reviews of regulations under their authority.

A website, www.RedTapeReduction.com has been set up as a portal for the public to weigh in on regulations felt to be over the top. The site says

"How You Can Help -If you are aware of a regulation that you believe to be outdated, unnecessary or overly complex, let us know by filling out this form. All suggestions will be reviewed and evaluated." and offers a link to a fill in the blanks form.