When the COVID-19 pandemic officially began in March, lockdowns bought lawmakers and industry leaders time to respond proactively to a public health crisis. But now, after schools and job creators spent months stocking up on PPE and adjusting their operations to reopen safely, it appears that the first round of shutdowns was not enough for anti-business politicians.

At a time when we should be encouraging the safe reopening of our economy, Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has reached a new low by once again shutting down schools and indoor dining. This comes despite little evidence of restaurants serving as superspreaders. There has been no consultation with relevant stakeholders, and the governor will not show the public the data driving these harmful closures.