Bills limiting Gov. Beshear’s executive powers draw vetoes

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - Governor Andy Beshear has vetoed bills that would limit executive powers he has been using to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

The Republican-led legislature completed fast-track work on the measures earlier this month.

GOP lawmakers have the numbers to override any vetoes when they resume their 30-day session next month.

In defending his vetoes, Beshear said the measures would hamstring the state’s efforts to combat the deadly COVID-19 pandemic until vaccinations become widespread.

Republicans accuse Beshear of overreaching with his series of emergency COVID-related restrictions on businesses, schools and individuals.

They claim the orders were arbitrary and uneven in application.