Missouri capitol closed

Caution and worry about the coronavirus has hit the Missouri capitol, as leaders in the Senate and the House of Representatives this week are urging people to refrain from visiting the capitol unless they are participating in legislative business.
Lawmakers closed public access to the House chamber and some other public places, including the House Lounge. Hand sanitizer has become quite popular in the building, and janitorial employees are often seen scrubbing and cleaning doorknobs, stair railings and elevator push buttons.
The Missouri Senate will not be in session next week and members of the House of Representatives will be working on a limited schedule in an effort to pass the Fiscal Year 2021 state operating budget before they begin spring break next week.
The annual legislative spring break is scheduled for the week of March 23. The General Assembly is scheduled to resume its usual schedule on March 30, unless adjustments are made.