COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - The December spike in COVID-19 cases has led South Carolina Senate Democrats to hold their annual planning meeting this week virtually, while Republicans will meet in person.
The 16 Democratic senators planned to meet in person in Sumter County on Wednesday, but after some discussion decided it was safer to stay apart, Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto of Orangeburg said in a statement.
“We must continue to take this public health crisis seriously, and adapt so that we can continue to serve our constituents in the best and safest way possible,” Hutto said.
The 30 Senate Republicans still plan to meet in person starting Monday at a resort on Kiawah Island, Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey told The State newspaper.
Events will be held outdoors or in a large ballroom to ensure social distancing, and members will be required to wear masks, Massey said.
Meeting in person is important because Republicans have three new senators. The meetings are also critical to find out where senators stand on important issues so they can have a plan on what items to take up from the start of the session, the Republican from Edgefield said.
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