Local governments can cite and fine businesses that are not COVID compliant

Businesses in 'gross noncompliance' will be shut down

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – As the escalation in cases of COVID-19 increases and is taxing healthcare providers, local governments are working to slow the spread, according to a release from the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Bowling Green and Warren County in conjunction with the State of Kentucky will start enforcement of the Governor’s executive orders on masking, social distancing, cleaning and signage, according to the release. They are asking all businesses to ensure they are compliant and enforcing the rules provided under the Governor’s Healthy at Work Guidance with their customer base as well. To view the guidance for your sector, visit the state site.

The police and sheriff’s departments as well as code enforcement for both the city and the county will have the authority to cite and fine businesses that are not compliant. They will also have the ability to report gross noncompliance to the health department and the business in question will be closed. Businesses that are shut down will not be able to reopen until they provide a suitable plan to be in compliance to the respective government body and receive approval.

Today the State reported 3,173 new cases; 25 new deaths and a positivity rate of 8.68%. Statewide we have 1,358 currently hospitalized; 307 in the ICU and 147 on a ventilator.

These efforts are to prevent another community wide shutdown to get the cases of COVID-19 under control. Please see all COVID-19 updates at www.bgchambercovid.com.