KENTUCKY — Kentucky's court system is ending most COVID-19 related restrictions, Chief Justice of Kentucky John D. Minton Jr. announced Tuesday. The changes, which are effective immediately, follow new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that allows fully vaccinated Americans to stop wearing masks indoors at most places.

“After the most challenging year in the history of the modern court system, I am pleased to announce that the Supreme Court has lifted most of the COVID-19 restrictions for employees, elected officials and those entering court facilities across the commonwealth,” Minton said in an internal communication to justices, judges, circuit court clerks and court personnel. “I am grateful to all of you for the perseverance and commitment to safety that allows us to begin transitioning back to normal operations for the Kentucky Court of Justice.”

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court entered two administrative orders that eliminate most of the health and safety requirements related to COVID-19 and further expand in-person court operations. Administrative Order 2021-16 replaces Administrative Order 2021-06 in its entirety while Administrative Order 2021-17 replaces Administrative Order 2021-07, also in its entirety.

Administrative Order 2021-16, among other things, allows in-person access to court facilities for anyone with business before the courts, except those who have symptoms of, have tested positive for or have been exposed to COVID-19. It also eliminates the mask requirement for fully vaccinated people entering court facilities and fully vaccinated KCOJ elected officials and employees. The order still strongly encourages members of the public and KCOJ elected officials and employees who are not fully vaccinated to wear a mask.

Administrative Order 2021-17, in part, lifts most restrictions on jury trials but requires continuances, postponements and recusals for attorneys, parties and jurors who are sick or at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. It also allows master commissioners to conduct judicial sales remotely or in person with no limitations.