TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly's emergency declaration meant to slow the spread of the coronavirus will remain in effect until Oct. 15.
The State Finance Council voted unanimously Friday to extend the order, which was to expire Tuesday.
The vote came after a contentious meeting during which Kelly, a Democrat, and GOP members of the council sparred over the governor's power to order the closing of businesses during the pandemic.
The governor said repeatedly that she would not order a statewide business closure. But the council approved the extension only after a clause was inserted saying Kelly doesn't intend to use her authority to close businesses in response to the virus.
The declaration was ordered earlier by Kelly to allow the state to provide services in response to the pandemic. She had warned that Kansans would not be able to access services they need to ensure their health and safety if the extension was not granted.
Under a compromise with the Legislature reached in June, the council must approve extensions of orders imposed by the governor.
