Resolution calls for end to governor’s COVID emergency status

EMERGENCY ORDER HAS BEEN IN EFFECT FOR NEARLY 2 YEARS

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – A measure was introduced in the Senate on Friday to legislatively end Gov. Andy Beshear’s two-year COVID-19 state of emergency, as well as any executive order or regulation enacted on the issue.

Senate Joint Resolution 150 is sponsored by Sen. Donald Douglas, a practicing physician, who says he speaks from a position of knowledge and authority.

"My experience the past 23 months is unique compared to most in the legislature, as I have at one point been only a constituent,” he said, “but since November I’ve served as an elected voice for the 22^nd District.  It is time to end this state of emergency and do so in an affirmative manner.  This is what our people want. This is what our constituents need. Dare I say, this is what they demand."

SJR 150 would designate March 7, 2022, one day over two years from the original state of emergency declaration, as the end date. On March 6, 2020, Governor Andy Beshear signed Executive Order 2020-215, declaring the state of emergency.

“Kentuckians need a breath of fresh air,” Douglas said. “Our constituents need a strong indication from their elected officials that we understand we cannot live in fear and isolation forever.

"People are mentally and emotionally exhausted, and government officials and bureaucrats have reached the limit of their effectiveness. Given the wealth of knowledge we now have on COVID-19 and the access to vaccinations and treatments, it's time we trust free people to live freely. Let's signal to them we care just as much about the quality of their life—their mental, emotional, social and spiritual health—as we do their physical health."

The governor’s office has not responded to a request for comment on the legislation.