Boise, Idaho – Earlier this week, 36 people tested positive for coronavirus in Mississippi due to an outbreak at the State Capitol. The outbreak comes after legislators have been meeting in the Capitol for the last several weeks. Around one in six Mississippi lawmakers have tested positive, along with several staff members, the Lieutenant Governor, and the State House Speaker.
Representative John Gannon/(D-Boise) stressed the importance of learning from the Mississippi legislature outbreak.
“The 26 legislators and 10 staffers who tested positive for the virus are evidence that the virus can disrupt a legislative session and cause serious illness.” Gannon said. “There is no doubt that meeting without masks, without a virtual option, and with a casual disregard for the virus can result in a mess. The virus is real, and the problem is real. The first task for the working group should be to set up a process and procedure to protect members and the public.”
“The Idaho legislature will have to meet in January to work on legislation to address the financial, health, and other impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. However, we need to make sure that we are meeting safely so legislators aren’t getting sick and bringing coronavirus back to their communities. The Idaho legislature needs to create a safe environment for legislators, staff, and citizens.”