Face masks are back in fashion in many places in Alaska, particularly in Juneau, and also are now required to enter the Alaska Capitol, per a Monday decision by the Legislative Council, which is chaired by Juneau Democrat Rep. Sarah Hannan.
Legislators and their staff must also be tested for Covid-19 every fourth day of the session, although this requirement is based on the honor system and whether it can be enforced is a question. There is no testing for members of the public and the building is open — for now.
Two motions by Sen. Lora Reinbold to make masks and testing optional failed, although it had the support of Sen. Peter Micciche and Reps. Cathy Tilton and Chris Tuck.
Legislative Council sets the rules for the building, and required masks in the Capitol and its annexes during the Covid-19 pandemic, except for six months between May and October, 2021.
The Alaska Legislature begins on Tuesday.
