Another Kentuckian has died as a result of the novel coronavirus. Governor Andy Beshear announced yesterday evening that a 64-year-old male from Jefferson County had died from complications related to COVID-19. As with the first COVID-19 death, Beshear stressed that the individual had several underlying health problems. As of last night, Beshear indicated that the state has seen 47 positive cases.
At the end of today, child care facilities across the Commonwealth will have to close their doors until further notice. As previously reported, Governor Andy Beshear made the decision to close daycares and other childcare facilities on Monday. Beshear stated that exceptions will be granted for workers in the healthcare industry. Childcare centers are just one of numerous closures the Governor has ordered in hopes of limiting the spread of COVID-19. As of yesterday, 2 children had tested for the virus.
While out on regular patrols, an officer with the Elizabethtown Police Department was alarmed to find a house on Guthrie Street fully engulfed in flames. The Elizabethtown Fire Department was called immediately, and the fire was put out. The home was abandoned and had no utilities running to it. No one was injured or displaced as a result of the fire. The investigation is ongoing.
The Kentucky House of Representatives passed a COVID-19 emergency bill last night before adjourning for a week, according to a social media post from Representative Jim DuPlessis. The bill removes the seven day waiting period for unemployment, extends the maximum amount of weeks of unemployment beyond twenty-six weeks, and allows for employees who have been reduced to part-time to draw a partial benefit. The bill also adds unemployment insurance relief for small businesses. In addition, the bill gives relief from licensing fees and other requirements for occupations and professions required to be licensed under Kentucky law, offers relief from tax filing and payment deadlines under state law to match federal changes, and deems physical therapists as essential health care under Kentucky law.
Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a local city has taken preemptive steps to better prepare. The City of Hodgenville announced yesterday that Mayor Jim Phelps declared a state of emergency in the city. Executive order 2020-02 entitles the city to possible federal funds to combat the virus, as well as the ability to pass special rules and regulations if needed. So far, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Larue County.
