FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are 4,879 COVID-19 cases and 248 coronavirus-related deaths in the state of Kentucky.
Friday's numbers include 177 new cases and eight new deaths. Out of the 4,879 cases, there have been 1,752 recoveries.
Governor Beshear says the state continues to do a good job with testing and with people following the guidelines for staying safe.
He added the state is still at the plateau, but overall things are going well.
When it comes to unemployment claims that were filed in March, Governor Beshear says the state should be able to resolve approximately 8,000 more claims that are held up simply due to identification issues.
"An email went out to the 8,000 from March," said Beshear. "If you're in that area, we want to make sure we can help you as quickly as possible, and we can if we get the verification provided you don't have another issue, that it's not verification plus employers protesting it."
He added that approximately 19,000-20,000 unemployment claims have other serious issues that need to be resolved.
Governor Beshear was also asked about the $500 million projected shortfall this fiscal year, saying that without financial aid from the federal government, there will be no new infrastructure work and a freeze on government hiring. There will also be a cut to non-essential spending.
"It is so severe that the federal government has to step in and do something. It would be just as impactful in the great recession," said Beshear. "Everybody will feel the brunt. Everybody."
HEALTHY AT WORK
May 11th
-Manufacturing
-Construction
-Vehicle or Vessel Dealerships
-Professional Services (50%)
-Horse Racing (No Fans)
-Dog Grooming/Boarding
May 20th
-Retail
-Houses of Worship
May 25th
-10 Person Social Gatherings (While Social Distancing)
-Barbers, salons, cosmetology businesses, and similar services
The 10 rules these businesses must follow in order to reopen are:
-Continue telework where possible
-Phased return to work
-Onsite temperature/health checks
-Universal masks and any other necessary PPE
-Close common areas
-Enforce social distancing
-Limit face-to-face meetings
-Sanitizer/hand washing stations
-Special accommodations
-Testing plan
