Colorado lawmakers have begun discussing in earnest whether to temporarily shut down the state legislature to limit the spread of the new coronavirus.

The debate comes as the outbreak increasingly disrupts activity at the Capitol and as Gov. Jared Polis is warning that the spread of the virus has no end in sight.

Colorado’s largest teachers union canceled a rally at the Capitol planned for next week in response to the virus, known at COVID-19. A top Democratic leader urged tourists and school groups to rethink their visits to the statehouse.  A public announcement of an environmental bill set for Wednesday was called off. And signs ask visitors to consider emailing state senators instead of passing them notes in the chambers, as is tradition.

A false rumor even circulated in the Capitol on Wednesday that a state lawmaker was at home awaiting COVID-19 test results. She has bronchitis.

“I’m not a health expert,” said Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert, a Parker Republican. “But if large groups of people congregating in a confined area increases the chance of spreading it, it kind of seems like something we ought to avoid.”

Colorado isn’t the only state having these conversations. State lawmakers in Washington, where the COVID-19 outbreak is most intense — are preparing to quickly shutter their Capitol if needed. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced a temporary shutdown of lawmaking in that state Wednesday. And Texas lawmakers canceled several committee meetings scheduled this week.

To continue reading this story, please click (HERE):