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Governor says he supports bill limiting governor's authority to close businesses during a pandemic
Summary
Asked about legislation that would restrict a governor's power to order business closures in a public‑health emergency, the governor expressed support while saying leaders should take professional guidance and that he favors limiting long unilateral shutdowns.
The governor said he supports a bill advancing in the legislature that would limit the governor's authority to order business closures during a pandemic unless there is clear evidence to justify such actions.
Asked about the measure, the governor said he understands the intent: to prevent a future governor from closing businesses for extended periods. He recalled the early days of COVID‑19 and described following national guidance to "slow the spread" before reopening, and said leaders must consult health professionals and the state Department of Health when making decisions.
On the bill's surface, the governor said it "sounds reasonable" and that he appreciates legislative attention to protecting citizens' rights and preventing prolonged shutdowns. He said he will evaluate the bill as it reaches his desk and noted he was among governors who did not impose a statewide mask mandate during the pandemic.
The governor framed the legislation as a check on executive power in future emergencies while emphasizing that public‑health experts will be part of decisionmaking. He did not provide a detailed position on the bill's language or specific amendments.
