Leaders in the Kentucky General Assembly are weighing in on the status of the coronavirus pandemic and the governor’s role in addressing associated health issues. The opening day of the special legislative session included floor comments in the State Senate. Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer read portions of the State Supreme Court ruling that stated lawmakers’ actions to limit the governor's authority were proper. The Scott County legislator said roles are defined in the state constitution. “It’s a very narrow job description that the founding fathers of this Commonwealth gave to the governor,” said Thayer.
Senate Minority Floor Leader Morgan McGarvey told his colleagues the Delta variant is surging and the coronavirus map is, quote, “more red than the political map here in Kentucky.” The Louisville lawmaker added, “every county is struggling.” While saying the General Assembly has a role, the McGarvey said there are also limitations.. “Yeah, the legislature is the policy-making body and I’m glad we’re here to be involved in that. But, we cannot micromanage this crisis from this chamber. And that doesn’t even count the other chamber,” said McGarvey.
The special session is expected to last the rest of the week.
