Governor Beshear says he will announce stricter measures Wednesday afternoon to try to rein in escalating coronavirus cases across Kentucky.
His comments came on a day where he read the ages and locations of 33 Kentuckians who have died. It was, by far, the highest number of deaths reported for one day. Saying, quote, “it is time to get control of this beast”, Beshear said he refused to stand by and watch avoidable loss.
During his portion of Tuesday’s COVID-19 briefing, State Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack agreed additional actions are needed. “The numbers show no signs of relenting. This week is on track to set a new record already with just two days worth of data. There has to be a third intervention,” said Stack.
Although not revealing many details, the governor said new measures will not be as restrictive as the shutdown ordered back in the spring. While admitting bars and restaurants will be affected by these actions, Beshear noted a new program will also be available to help some entities impacted.
Beshear was asked about a phone app available in New York City where users are notified if they’ve been in close proximity for ten minutes or more of someone who has tested positive or later test positive. The governor said his administration opted not to pursue this technology. “The feedback that we got from Kentuckians was that they felt that intruded on their privacy and was a level of tracking that Kentuckians wouldn’t accept,” explained Beshear.
A New York government official said the phone app doesn’t track location or store any personal information. The governor added a new curfew will not be part of the new restrictions.?
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