Sen. Yarbro: Legislature Should Not Pass Laws While ‘People’ Are Banned

Senate Democratic Leader says a recess would allow Gov. Lee time to focus efforts on coronavirus response

NASHVILLE — Senate Democratic Leader Jeff Yarbro is calling for the legislature to recess as the state’s response to the novel coronavirus escalates.

Earlier today, Gov. Bill Lee announced the Capitol would be closed to the public. The Republican speakers of the House and Senate followed suit announcing the legislature would continue passing laws, but would also close to the public.

In a statement, Sen. Yarbro said a legislative recess would better serve the “people” and allow the governor to focus on the coronavirus pandemic:

It’s the right call to limit gatherings in the Capitol. Public health should be the priority right now. But if we’re not doing absolutely essential and time-sensitive work, the legislature shouldn’t meet in the People’s house if we’re not letting people be there.

There’s very little on the legislative agenda for the next two weeks that is essential state business. We should take a short recess and then reassess. The best move would be to recess so that the Governor and his team can focus on this emergency.