NPR

Despite Coronavirus Risks, The U.S. Senate Returns For Normal Business

Senators return to the Capitol on Monday, more than five weeks after their last formal gathering. There are new public health guidelines for the chamber.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., seen here in the Capitol on April 21, has led efforts to resume Senate business.

Though the coronavirus remains a serious threat in Washington, D.C., U.S. senators return to the Capitol from their home states on Monday, more than five weeks after their last formal gathering and roll call votes.

"All across our nation, American workers in essential sectors are following expert advice and taking new precautions while they continue reporting for duty and performing irreplaceable work their country needs," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a statement Friday. "Starting Monday, the Senate will do the same."

That means up to 100 senators — along with their staffs, support workers, visitors and others — will return to the Capitol building, with some new health guidelines.

Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser recently that members of Congress are considered essential workers. As a result, Congress doesn't have to adhere to her and closure of nonessential businesses.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min read
Peloton Is Laying Off Workers And Replacing The CEO — Again
It's déjà vu for the luxury fitness company: Peloton is cutting about 400 more jobs, and its CEO is stepping down just two years after a major shakeup.
NPR7 min readAmerican Government
Trump Trial Coverage
The news media face a number of temptations while covering the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump, including dwelling on salacious details, overdramatizing insignificant moments, and getting distracted by out-of-court behaviors that have
NPR1 min readAmerican Government
FTC Bars Former Pioneer CEO In Exxon Mobil Deal, Saying He Colluded With OPEC
Exxon Mobil's $60 billion deal to buy Pioneer Natural Resources received federal clearance, but former Pioneer CEO Scott Sheffield was barred from joining the new company's board of directors.

Related Books & Audiobooks