FRANKFORT, Ky. — House and Senate leaders announced Monday afternoon that the 2020 session will continue but with a number safeguard put in place.
House Speaker David Osborne and Senate President Robert Stivers released a joint statement.
“We believe that the General Assembly has a responsibility to the people of Kentucky and our membership is committed to fulfilling that obligation. However, we are putting in place a number of safety procedures based on the recommendations of public health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While this is a departure from business as usual, we are taking every step possible to use available technology to ensure transparency and accessibility.”
Access to the Capitol Annex and the legislative proceedings will be limited beginning Tuesday, March 17. Only elected members, staff, and members of the meda will be allowed in the facilty. This restriction is in place until further notice. Kentuckians wishing to view the proceedings will be able to do so via livestream and Kentucky Education Television (KET). Anyone needing to speak with their legislator can do so by email, a toll-free message line at 1-800-372-7181, a direct line at 1-502-564-8100. Residents can also get more information from the Legislative Research Commission website.
Here is a list of the changes taking place:
- The Capitol Annex is closed to everyone but legislators, essential staff, LRC-credentialed media, and specifically-approved individuals (Governor Beshear has already closed the Capitol)
- Increasing streaming for committee meetings and House and Senate Floor proceedings
- Working to increase staffing of toll-free message lines
- Closing of the House and Senate visitor galleries
- Limiting in-person attendance at committee meetings
- Suspending the use of legislative pages, door keepers, and other floor personnel