Judge Denies GOP Challenge To Gov. Edwards' COVID-19 Restrictions

A judge ruled in favor of Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards after the state attorney general and Republican legislators requested the governor's coronavirus restrictions be rescinded.

"Today is a victory for public health in the state of Louisiana and for all of those people, from our health care heroes, including our doctors, nurses and other medical professionals to our scientists and researchers, who are fighting every day to slow the spread of COVID and save lives here," Gov. Edwards said in an emailed statement.

Last week, he announced that the state would remain in Phase 3 until at least December 4. According to the order, bars can operate at 25% capacity with no more than 50 people allowed inside, live music is still not allowed indoors, and gatherings like parties and weddings are limited to 250 people. Masks mandates remain in place.

"This represents our best chance at slowing the spread of COVID in Louisiana and has and will save lives," said Edwards. "I will continue to work with public health experts, scientists and doctors on strategies and mitigation measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Louisiana."

Lawmakers attempted to revoke his restrictions, claiming the state's economy has been negatively impacted. Attorney General Jeff Landry issued a statement following the judge's ruling, saying the court "effectively ruled the Governor may make law without any legislative oversight."

"It is problematic when a judge rewrites the law from the bench," he wrote. "That seems to be occurring more and more and adds to the current turmoil we find our country in. This case and its outcome affects all Louisiana citizens, their livelihoods, and their safety."

Both Gov. Edwards' and Landry's statements can read at KATC.

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