Governor Beshear has announced new restrictions to combat surging cases of coronavirus. They include prohibiting indoor dining at restaurants and bars, further capacity limits for events, both social and recreational, and virtual learning for public school students.
The governor stressed it will not be a shutdown of businesses and that the state’s economy will remain open. But, Beshear said the measures are needed to fight a third deadly wave of cases. “Let’s make this work. If we’re going to sacrifice and take these steps, let’s make sure that they work. Over the next three weeks, let’s have a major impact on stopping the exponential growth of this virus. And then, let’s turn it around,” said Beshear.
During his remarks, Kentucky Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said the easy decisions for state officials ended a long time ago. “Every one of these weighs heavily on me, certainly as I recommend interventions to the governor and as I work to lead the public health department. I’m sorry, it’s a little bit difficult. It’s been months since I got a little emotional over this, but folks we’ve got to do this. But we can overcome it and we know we can overcome it because we’ve done it two other times,” explained Stack.
Beshear said counties are being called upon to enforce these measures. He said mask wearing enforcement has waned in recent weeks. $40 million dollars is being set aside to help restaurants and bars offset losses. Eligible eateries can apply for $10,000 dollars for each establishment with a maximum of $20,000 for multiple sites.
Some legislative leaders reacted with criticism for Beshear’s actions. Senate President Robert Stivers said the decisions made solely by the governor limit and restrict businesses that may not survive. The Senate leader also said there is data lacking to justify closing schools to in-person learning.
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