A Georgia state legislator was removed from the state chamber chambers on Tuesday for his refusal to adhere to COVID-19 guidelines that require testing by lawmakers and officials.
After being asked to leave by President David Ralston (R), and refusing to do so, state deputy David Clark (R) was escorted out of the chamber by a state police officer, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Clark was removed for his refusal to undergo mandatory coronavirus testing twice a week. He did not take it during the three-week session, according to the Constitution Daily.
Ralston announced the testing requirements in a December 30 memo, which outlined best practices for controlling coronavirus. The statements indicate that the required tests are saliva-based PCR tests, which means that it is not necessary to rub your nose. In addition, masks must be worn at all times, except when a member is heading to the House.
According to the Journal-Constitution, Ralston made an announcement on Tuesday morning asking a person who violates the protocols to leave the cameras.
“We have a member of this body who deliberately failed to be tested when we started the session, clearly in violation of our testing policy, endangering the health of other members of this chamber,” said Ralston.
He then asked the unnamed member discreetly exit the chambers. When Clark failed to do so, Ralston called an officer to intervene.
“The member will be allowed to return when complying with the security policy of all those who come to the Capitol,” Ralston’s office said in a statement after the incident. “It is about preventing the spread of a disease that has killed more than 12,000 Georgians.”
From the speaker of the Mayor, David Ralston:
“The member will be allowed to return when complying with the security policy of all those who come to Capitol.It is about preventing the spread of a disease that has killed more than 12,000 Georgians. ” #gapol pic.twitter.com/z6wAhrDQaX
– Greg Bluestein (@bluestein) January 26, 2021
Clark said while speaking to reporters that others, such as rescuers and teachers, should be tested before him.
Congressman David Clark (R-Buford) said he was kicked out of the General Assembly session because he refused to take the COVID test. @ 11AliveNews pic.twitter.com/bWJloQ6aLz
– Joe Ripley (@ JoeRipley11) January 26, 2021
Journal-Constitution reporter Greg Bluestein tweeted that Clark promised to return to the cameras on Wednesday.
“I’m going to show up every day and work for my constituents,” said Clark.
state @RepDavidTClark tell me you are considering legal action after you were expelled from Georgia House for not having a coronavirus test –
and that he plans to return tomorrow. #gapol pic.twitter.com/Dfnf64viBq– Greg Bluestein (@bluestein) January 26, 2021
Clark and Ralston did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment.