The Kentucky Senate and House continue to take action on measures modifying executive branch authority. Senators approved three such bills Thursday.
One limits certain emergency executive orders issued by the governor to 30 days unless an extension is approved by the general assembly. It also would prohibit the governor from declaring an additional similar emergency order upon expiration of the first order. Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer spoke in support of the bill. “So, here we are going on what 300 plus days now in the perpetual state of emergency and the people have been weary of a lot of the restrictions and they feel like their voice has not been heard in this Capitol,” said Thayer.
Lexington Senator Reggie Thomas cast one of the no votes. He said calling the legislature back into session would be costly plus it could mean a paralyzing of government during a time of crisis.
Senate Minority Floor Leader Democrat Morgan McGarvey said the governor is best suited to deal with ongoing coronavirus issues, particularly with a part-time legislature. “The pain of this pandemic is not partisan. My fear is this bill is,” said McGarvey.
Several GOP senators spoke in favor of the bills. Paducah Senator Danny Carrol was critical of Governor Beshear. Alluding to previous restrictions regarding church worship, Carrol said, in his words “shame on you governor for taking those steps.”?
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