Iowa lawmakers are currently on hiatus as they await further instruction as it relates to the spread of the novel coronavirus in Iowa.

State Representative Dustin Hite says lawmakers passed several emergency bills before suspending the 2020 Legislative Session on Monday.

From Hite’s newsletter:
“This week has seen some unprecedented measures taken across the country and in the State to curb the spread of COVID-19. One such measure was taken by the House and Senate to pass emergency legislation shortly after midnight on Tuesday to suspend our legislative session for a minimum of 30 days. The decision was made in consultation with the Department of Public Health and the Governor’s office following the announcement of “community spread” in Iowa. The Legislature is following recommendations from the Center for Disease Control related to mass gatherings to protect vulnerable populations.

This was a decision that was not made lightly but is in the best interest of the public, press, staff, and legislators.

Before adjourning for the time being, the Legislature passed a plan that will help the state respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. This plan ensures that the state can meet its budget obligations and Iowans can continue to rely on essential services and gives schools certainty regarding school closings. Additionally, it provides Governor Reynolds with additional tools to ensure that she can effectively manage a rapidly changing situation.”

Hite says all senators and representatives remain ready to be called in for further action if needed, but that the Iowa Governor’s Office and state agencies have been given latitude to handle the pandemic virus as needed.

Hite advises all residents to adhere to advice from the Iowa Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help slow the spread of COVID-19.