OAK GROVE, Ky. (WTVF) — Kentucky lifted its pandemic-related restrictions on Friday.
About a month ago, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that he wanted to give families who have children between the ages of 12 and 15 a chance to get their kids vaccinated before lifting restrictions. Now that enough time has passed to allow for that, Beshear feels it's time to open back up.
That means no more statewide mask mandate and no more capacity limits. Up until today, capacity limits were at 75%. Senior centers will also open up at full capacity.
As of now, just about half the state has gotten its first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 40% of the state is fully vaccinated.
While things are reopening today, Beshear still wants to see more people get their shot, which is one reason the state is offering a big incentive -- a chance for three people to win $1 million.
“Three separate drawings will be conducted so three vaccinated Kentuckians out there are about to hit the jackpot with time for plenty of others to get that shot and then to get their shot,” Beshear said.
There are also prizes for kids, which will be entered into a drawing for a full scholarship to any public college in Kentucky.
Right now, just a little more than 65,000 kids between the ages 12 and 17 have gotten their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Gov. Beshear says with the vaccination rate going up and state re-opening, they are headed in the right direction and life will return to normal.
"We are winning our war against this evil virus this year and we are steadily returning to all those activities and life events we had to sacrifice in order to save lives,” Beshear said.
Beshear will also give his last COVID-19 update on Friday.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
