As expected, Governor Eric Holcomb has vetoed the bill that would put new limits on the emergency powers of his office.

The bill was passed overwhelmingly by both the House and the Senate.

It would take only a simple majority to override the veto. Holcomb argues the bill violates the separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches.

Specifically, he says it usurps a “power given exclusively to the governor” by allowing the legislature to call itself into a special session.

The legislation was prompted by objections to Holcomb’s orders mandating mask-wearing and restrictions on businesses during the pandemic.