FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — A Kentucky judge has entered a statewide temporary restraining order against some of Governor Andy Beshear's COVID-19 executive orders.
It comes following a lawsuit brought by several northern Kentucky businesses and joined by Attorney General Daniel Cameron. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of Governor Beshear's use of executive power during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a hearing this week, Circuit Court Judge Richard A. Brueggemann ruled in favor of the Kentucky businesses.
The order stops the statewide enforcement of the Governor's executive orders as they apply to childcare centers and automobile racetracks.
The lawsuit argues that since Governor Beshear declared an emergency on March 6th, he has arbitrarily issued complex, overbroad, and often conflicting orders.
"While there is no doubt a need to protect public health during this pandemic, our Constitution expressly prohibits one person from controlling every aspect of life for Kentuckians," said Cameron. "The statewide temporary restraining order issued today suggests the court shares our concern that the Governor’s executive orders are arbitrary and violate the constitution."
The court will now consider each of Cameron's claims.
