Missouri State Senate to remain in session after senator tests positive for COVID-19

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri Senate is planning to be in session next week as scheduled even after State Senator Andrew Koenig tested positive for the coronavirus.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Caleb Rowden tweeted out that "We are following CDC guidance relating to “close contacts” and contact tracing recommendations. I encourage my colleagues to follow safety recommendations (social distancing, mask-wearing, etc) so that we may continue to do the work of the people of this great state."

Rowden says, "We knew this session would present unprecedented challenges, but we also know that challenges can lead to opportunities. We look forward to what can be accomplished this session to meet the urgency of this moment."

State Senator Koenig tweeted out that he is experiencing mild symptoms but he will be quarantining at home for the next 10 days.

Koenig says he looks forward to fully resuming his duties for the people of St. Louis County soon.

In December, Koenig pre-filed a bill to limit local governments' power to enact health orders like those meant to fight the coronavirus pandemic.

At the time, Koenig said he wanted to restrict local officials from making "unnecessary restrictions" that hurt businesses.

According to the Associated Press, the Missouri legislature is planning to open a rapid testing clinic for potential COVID-19 cases in the Capitol building, after the session began with three House members tested positive for COVID-19.

The House canceled session this week.