The number of coronavirus cases in Kentucky passed 20,000 Tuesday with Governor Andy Beshear announcing the second highest daily increase in virus cases since the pandemic began.
The statewide total sits at 20,223 after 576 Kentuckians tested positive for COVID-19 Tuesday. Some of the new cases come from counties in west Kentucky including Graves, Christian and Hopkins. Tuesday’s total included nine children under five (some of whom hail from Graves and Calloway counties).
“If 400 [new cases] made you gulp, 576 ought to create a knot in your stomach,” Beshear said.
Beshear said his administration is reactivating the KY-SAFER hotline as a tool to fight noncompliance with orders including the requirement for face coverings. Those seeking to report noncompliance may use the state website or call 1-833-KYSAFER.
As the General Assembly begins holding in-person hearings at the Capitol in Frankfort, a Republican lawmaker announced he tested positive for the virus. Sixteenth District Senator Max Wise in a statement said he is quarantined at home with mild symptoms. Beshear shared a photo of other lawmakers attending an in-person committee meeting in the Capitol Annex. The photo appears to show legislators including Rep. Stan Lee failing to maintain six feet of social distance or wear a face covering.
“We’re in a life and death battle, and you can’t be doing that,” Beshear said of failure to comply with the mask order among members of the General Assembly.
Beshear also responded to controversy surrounding a no-bid contract to remove the Jefferson Davis monument from the Capitol rotunda. A legislative panel called on Attorney General Daniel Cameron and federal prosecutors to investigate the legality of the contract. Beshear said the request is politically motivated, and the contract followed all relevant laws and procedures.
After WKMS previously reported Paducah-based WPSD told their employees they need permission to access COVID-19 testing, Beshear said employers shouldn’t be involved in their employee’s personal health matters.
“I don’t think your employer can dictate your healthcare decisions,” Beshear said.
More information concerning Kentucky’s response to COVID-19 may be found here.
