LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Kentucky state lawmaker wants to limit a governor’s power during emergencies.
State Rep. Savannah Maddox, R-Dry Ridge, has proposed legislation that would require all emergency orders issued by the governor to last no longer than 14 days. The legislature would then be allowed to decide whether to extend the orders.
In a statement, Gov. Andy Beshear's office said he acted in the best interest of Kentucky residents during the pandemic.
During this once in a lifetime pandemic, Gov. Beshear placed protecting the health of fellow Kentuckians above politics and lawmakers should do the same. The Governor has taken swift and decisive action, based on guidance from the White House and Centers for Disease Control, that has saved the lives of thousands of Kentuckians.
Kentuckians deserve leaders in Frankfort that do not play politics during a global health pandemic and understand nearly 130,000 Americans – including more than 600 Kentuckians – have lost their life to the virus. Fighting to rollback COVID-19 safety measures, particularly as other states see dramatic spikes, only means more lives will be lost, but this isn't the first time this legislator has placed politics above the health of Kentuckians.
The proposal also calls for allowing only the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to issue rules and regulations during an infectious disease outbreak, and for no more than 21 days. The legislature would then be given the chance to extend those rules.
The bill will be considered during next year's session.
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