More big news tonight from Ford.

The company says it will convert vehicle battery plants in Kentucky, but not before workers are laid off.

The Courier Journal reports Ford is expected to let go of 1500 employees at one of its Blue Oval esque plants in Hardin County.

The news comes after Scone and Ford announced last week that they're ending their partnership.

Now, Ford says it will use the two Kentucky plants to make battery energy storage systems to help power data centers, among other things.

Ford says it plans to invest $2 billion over the next two years to scale the project, according to the Courier Journal, Ford wants to hire more than 2000 workers.

They anticipate many of the workers being let go will reapply.

State lawmakers who represent the area have responded.

Republican State Senator Matt Dineen says Ford will support and assist employees impacted in the short term.

State Representative Samara Heaven and Steve Bratcher also issued a joint statement following today's announcement.

It reads in part, quote, we are optimistic about Ford Motor Company's decision to take over the Glendale facility and transition the project toward energy storage, particularly as initial plans for the project have faced significant challenges from the outset.

At the same time, optimism must be matched with both caution and accountability.

And we will be watching closely to ensure commitments are met and honored.

End quote.