Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear in a media briefing Tuesday urged Kentuckians to refrain from large gatherings as New Year’s Eve approaches. He also announced another $5 billion in federal funding for the state in the new federal COVID-19 relief package.
“Giving up one new year’s eve in your life isn’t a lot to ask when it comes to people staying alive or people dying,” he said. “Be an individual who sacrifices this New Year’s Eve for the betterment, better health and safety of everybody around you.”
Beshear announced several executive orders will be extended in preparation for the new year. Face masks requirements will be extended for 30 days starting on Jan. 2, 2021. The executive order allowing pharmacies to dispense 30-day refills will be extended beginning Jan. 4. The eviction moratorium will also be extended until Jan. 31, 2021, aligned with the CDC’s eviction moratorium order.
Beshear reported 2,990 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, bringing the state total to 261,492 cases. There were 31 additional deaths.
Beshear also reported 1,635 hospitalizations, including 380 people in the ICU and 211 on ventilators. The state positivity rate is 8.41%.
Beshear also said the new federal COVID-19 relief bill included more than $5 billion for the state, including funds for direct payments, unemployment insurance, and vaccine distribution. The bill contains an estimated $297.4 million in rental, utility, and energy assistance, as well as $261 million for higher education. Beshear said the funds will greatly help Kentuckians.
“This act didn’t do everything I thought it would, but it is a significant help to fighting this virus, to getting back on our feet, and helping our families that are struggling,” he said.
