GOP lawmakers in Kentucky assume lead role in fighting COVID

A landmark court decision has largely shifted responsibility for the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic from Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear to Republicans in control of the legislature

FRANKFORT, Ky. -- A landmark decision by the Kentucky Supreme Court has largely shifted responsibility for the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic from Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear to Republicans in control of the legislature. Now, after mostly watching from the sidelines as Beshear waged an aggressive response during much of the pandemic, the lawmakers will have to own it. The shift comes as the virus surges. It means Republican lawmakers, who criticized the governor for what they viewed as overly broad and stringent restrictions on Kentuckians, will decide on mask mandates and vaccine incentives going forward. Beshear, who is expected to seek re-election in 2023, vowed to stay involved. He raised the possibility of calling a special legislative session to address virus-related issues.