Public health emergency-definition amendments.
AN ACT relating to public health and safety; requiring the governor to convene the legislature after declaring that a public health emergency exists as specified; authorizing the legislature to satisfy quorum requirements and vote in person or remotely by an electronic method; amending the definition of public health emergency as specified; making conforming amendments; specifying applicability; and providing for an effective date.
This bill proposes to make changes to the definition of a public health emergency and how the legislature responds to such a declaration. If a governor declares a public health emergency, the bill would require the governor to call a special session of the legislature. Additionally, it would allow the legislature to meet and vote using electronic means to satisfy quorum requirements, whether in person or remotely. The bill also amends the definition of a public health emergency to include certain criteria. It was introduced in the House on February 3, 2025, and referred to the Labor committee. However, it did not pass and was returned to committee on March 3, 2025.
This bill would impact the governor, the legislature, and potentially all citizens if a public health emergency is declared. It aims to streamline the legislative response process during emergencies to ensure continuity and safety. The bill's failure means these changes will not be implemented in its current form, but it could be revisited in future sessions.
The bill was introduced on February 3, 2025, and referred to the Labor committee. After no report was issued, it was returned to committee on March 3, 2025, effectively ending its progress for this session.