RI GOP Calls for General Assembly to “Safely Convene,” Dem Leaders “Researching Contingency Plans”

RI GOP Calls for General Assembly to “Safely Convene,” Dem Leaders “Researching Contingency Plans”

Rhode Island House and Senate Republicans are calling for an immediate “continuity of legislative operations plan” from Governor Gina Raimondo, Speaker Nicholas Mattiello and Senate President Domenick Ruggerio. 

“The critical aspects of the People’s business must go on so long as the Rhode Island General Assembly can safely convene. We are gravely concerned by the recent comments from Legislative Leadership that legislative sessions may not recommence until January, 2021,” stated the GOP in a letter sent to leadership, signed unanimously by both House and Senate Minority Caucuses.

“This is unacceptable if the General Assembly can safely meet,” they said. 

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READ GOP'S LETTER BELOW

Mattiello and Ruggerio responded with the following letter to legislators. 

We view the current status as temporary, and hold out hope that aggressive social distancing measures are successful and we can begin incrementally reopening businesses and institutions after several weeks. However, as we stated in separate emails to all members of our respective chambers yesterday, we are researching contingency plans, including remote sessions. We believe it would be entirely inappropriate to divert desperately needed personal protective gear away from the medical personnel who rely on it during this crisis, but we appreciate other suggestions from all members.

We are in daily communication with our colleagues in the Legislature and with Governor Gina Raimondo. If there are concerns with a particular executive order, or there is an action that needs immediate attention, please communicate that to us so that we may discuss it with the Governor. As noted in the letter from the Minority Caucus, she has provided exemplary leadership during this public health emergency, including a willingness to change course when appropriate.

All but a small handful of states are in recess or adjourned at this time. Public safety has to be paramount. Already we have seen a state legislator in Michigan succumb to COVID-19, and legislators in other states such as Georgia have been stricken by the coronavirus. Furthermore, during a State of Emergency, it is appropriate and necessary to have one strong voice for the people of Rhode Island. Governor Raimondo has provided clear directives. Rhode Islanders should follow the guidance and protocols of the Governor and the Department of Health, and we can help by communicating a unified message to our constituents.