* As of early this week, the Senate wasn’t planning to mandate tests for the one-day special session. But things change. The Senate President’s office told me today that these requirements will also apply to staff, members and lobbyists…

Good afternoon,

The Senate will return for a special session to consider updates to the legislative maps on Tuesday, August 31 at noon.

With the Delta variant and resurgence of COVID cases, there will continue to be safety protocols in place, which I have outlined below.

Notably, you may now take a PCR test 72 hours before attending session and present your results for access. SHIELD testing will also be available in the Stratton Building on Monday, August 30, from 2-8 p.m.

If you have any questions about these measures or building access, please email me at xxxxx or call xxxx.

COVID-19 testing

Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative COVID-19 test to access Senate offices or the Senate chamber. You may take a SHIELD saliva test in the C Section of the Stratton Building on Monday, August 30, from 2-8 p.m.

Please utilize the current SHIELD Point N Click site (shieldilportal.pointnclick.com) using your existing log-in information to schedule an appointment. The appointment time does not matter.

However, you may also present a negative PCR test result. You may not use a rapid test.

The PCR test should be taken within 72 hours of attending session. Because these results often take 2-3 days to come back, it is recommended that you seek a test on Saturday, August 28. Tests from Sunday (8/29) or Monday (8/30) will also be accepted, but please bear in mind that it is extremely unlikely you will get a result in time if you test 24 hours in advance.

Masks

Masks are currently required in all areas of the Capitol Building, regardless of your vaccination status. Your mask should be worn covering your nose and mouth.

Social distancing

Social distancing of 6 feet should be observed whenever possible. There will continue to be a limit of three (3) reporters in each press box and three (3) cameras in the TV gallery, with one spot reserved for Blue Room Stream.

Senate chamber access

Access to the press boxes and television gallery will be limited to media with valid 102nd General Assembly press credentials. Other media may utilize the public galleries while observing social distancing and masking protocols.

Liz Mitchell
Deputy Press Secretary
Senate President Don Harmon