HARRISBURG – The Senate took an important step to continue its operations safely today by passing a resolution allowing members to vote remotely, according to Senator Scott Martin (R-13).
The temporary emergency rules included in Senate Resolution 318 will ensure the Senate can continue voting even when Senators cannot be physically present at the Capitol Building in Harrisburg due to coronavirus mitigation efforts that are ongoing statewide.
The resolution creates a mechanism for members to file bills electronically and to participate in committee meetings and session through the use of communications technology. The emergency powers are scheduled to expire July 31, 2020 or 10 days following the expiration of the governor’s emergency order, whichever is sooner.
In order to ensure transparency, session was announced well in advance and streamed live for the public at www.PASenateGOP.com.
Session was very brief and social distancing was strongly encouraged for members in accordance with guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.
CONTACT: Terry Trego (717) 787-6535