Kentucky to lift ban on travel, small gatherings

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) said Thursday that the state would lift its ban on travel and small gatherings on May 22, the Friday before Memorial Day, as the state eases into reopening during the coronavirus pandemic.

“We realize that people are making plans for Memorial Day,” Beshear said at a press conference.

“And I trust that we can do this right. That we can do this safely.”

Restaurants in the Blue Grass State will also be able to open on May 22, though they will only be able to operate at one-third their usual seating capacity.

Recently, Beshear outlined his plan for a phased reopening for Kentucky. In his plan, places of worship opened May 9, and some businesses including pet care stores, construction and vehicle dealerships opened on Monday. 

Government offices and agencies are slated to open this coming Monday, May 18, followed by retail stores and funeral homes on Wednesday. Next Friday, the ban on small gatherings and travel will be lifted as well as restrictions on restaurants. Meaning, gatherings of 10 or fewer people will be allowed in the state.

Like most states that are beginning to reopen amid the pandemic, stringent social distancing and other safety guidelines will still be enforced.