State capitol closing over concerns about rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations
Written by Juliana on December 4, 2020
State capitol closing over concerns about rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations
By Sam Dunklau / WITF
December 4, 3030
Pennsylvania has closed its state capitol complex to the public next week, over concerns about rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.
The complex hosted a number of indoor events during the legislature’s fall session.
But not everyone, including lawmakers themselves, abided by mask-wearing and social distancing rules.
Troy Thompson of Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services, which oversees the complex, says coronavirus cases are rising too quickly to allow indoor rallies, tours, and other public gatherings to happen.
“When certain issues arise that the public is passionate about, they tend to organize, and we just want to make sure that they are safe.”
State capitol employees and those with ID badges will still be allowed in.
Thompson says until positivity rates and other metrics improve, any public gatherings will have to take place outside.
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