The state Supreme Court has upheld the authority of Governor Andy Beshear to issue executive orders in an emergency following a challenge with those he had issued during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Courier-Journal, in a unanimous vote, the state’s high court found that Beshear acted within the governor’s power under the Kentucky Constitution and by state law to issue such orders.
In the opinion written by Justice Lisabeth T. Hughes, the Supreme Court ruled “the Governor’s orders were, and continue to be, necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of all Kentucky citizens.”
Beshear had argued his orders were essential to limit the coronavirus’s spread, ease economic harm, and save lives. Republican Attorney General Daniel Cameron joined the challenge and argued that Beshear had overstepped his authority and bypassed the state General Assembly.
In a statement released by Cameron Thursday morning, he said he will always stand up for the constitutional rights of Kentuckians. He added he looks forward to working with the General Assembly regarding lingering issues with KRS 39A and other executive power.
In comments after the ruling, Governor Beshear said he was grateful for the decision.
He added the ruling gives the state a chance to get the virus back under control.
Beshear said he hopes those who are not following the guidelines will have a change of heart and help defeat the virus.
