Like many other organizations that have cut their schedules back, the General Assembly is taking a brief time-out from its legislative session to limit the chances of anyone becoming infected with the coronavirus disease, or COVID-19.
As we all weather this hopefully temporary new normal, I want to provide some helpful information as we address this public health emergency. First, let me say that I am proud of what we as Kentuckians have done to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Limiting public contact at sporting and civic events, practicing good hygiene, and temporarily closing our schools and colleges have undoubtedly slowed its progress significantly.
I also want to give considerable credit to Governor Andy Beshear, his team, and our public health officials for keeping us informed and prepared. They’ve done an incredible job in trying times. Also, a huge thanks to all state agencies for being so accommodating in the emergency procedures we all need during this unprecedented event. And to everyone who is going above and beyond, being selfless and sacrificing to help us all out during these trying times.
While social distancing, which means staying at least six feet apart from others whenever possible, is important in this type of situation, that should not mean social isolation. Thanks to the internet and smartphones, it is easier than ever to stay in contact with loved ones and friends, and I encourage you to do just that even if you feel the need to limit in-person visits, belong to a high-risk group, or know others who fall in these categories.
When the legislative session hopefully begins again on Tuesday, my General Assembly colleagues and I will be ready to take whatever additional steps we can to help. That may mean more state funding, and it will likely include passing House Bill 461, which would help our schools with their lengthy closure by offering more flexibility in scheduling and attendance and by giving all of them the chance to use nontraditional instructional days to avoid a much longer school year.
There are other state resources that can provide more information. If you believe you have COVID-19, but don’t need emergency assistance, call your local healthcare provider rather than visiting the doctor first or the emergency room. You can also get questions answered by calling the state hotline at 1-800-722-5725 and/or visiting kycovid19.ky.gov, the state-run website that provides the latest updates.
Lastly, if you are having trouble with any issues tied to health insurance, please know you have the option to file a complaint with the Kentucky Department of Insurance. The link to the complaint form can be found here: http://insurance.ky.gov/ppc/static_info.aspx?static_id=1
I will continue to keep you updated as we move ahead, and I want to thank you again for your resilience and for reaching out to those in need. As difficult as it has been in recent days, this willingness to help each other in these trying times is something we should all be proud of.
Thanks for all you do and holler anytime.