Capitol Hill physician releases new COVID-19 guidelines for lawmakers

May 4, 2020 Michael US 0

In this May 3, 2020 photo, light shines from inside the U.S. Capitol dome at dusk on Capitol Hill in Washington. The Senate is set to resume Monday, May 4. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

OAN Newsroom
UPDATED 1:06 PM PT — Monday, May 4, 2020

Capitol Hill physician Brian Monahan released a new set of guidelines for lawmakers, which he said could stay in place for years. Monahan announced the recommendations over the weekend as both chambers of Congress weigh returning to Capitol Hill to discuss the fifth coronavirus relief package.

According to the medical expert, legislative sessions moving forward will likely be held largely through teleconferencing. Social distancing will have to be maintained and face masks will be recommended, but not required. The medical expert also expects it will be necessary for the safety measures take effect in capitol cafeterias, elevators and staffing offices.

Although the Senate is meeting Monday, the House has decided to push-back convening in response to the doctor’s recommendations. However, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi insisted the House is still remaining productive while maintaining social distance.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of Calif. adjusts her face mask during a news conference on Capitol Hill Thursday, April 30, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Pelosi said the House could return to Washington, D.C. as soon as next week, but nothing is locked in place. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has insisted it’s Congress’ duty to legislate even amid the pandemic.

All across America, essential workers are following expert advice and taking new precautions while they continue reporting for duty. Starting Monday, the Senate will do the same. We will continue to stand together for the American people — even as we stand six feet apart. pic.twitter.com/V44KNzrgRf

— Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) May 1, 2020