RALEIGH – Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) released a statement Friday afternoon saying a Republican state senator tested positive for COVID-19 this week.
“Earlier this morning, I was alerted that a member of the Republican caucus received a positive COVID-19 test today,” Berger said in the release. The General Assembly held voting sessions on veto overrides on Wednesday.
Sen. Berger said prior to arriving for the voting session, the member tested negative, and took another test because his wife was scheduled for a medical procedure.
“The member took a second test on Thursday to be certain. He was not symptomatic when he took the second test. He is staying home and feels well. Out of an abundance of caution, the member called Sen. Dan Blue to alert him and members of the Democratic caucus. The member has also spoken to members of the Republican caucus and staff,” Berger’s statement continued.
In a tweet on Friday afternoon, state Sen. Danny Britt (R-Robeson) identified himself as the senator who tested positive.
Also today, Gov. Roy Cooper signed Senate Bill 232 into law, which repeals confidentiality of certain death investigation information and to authorizes individuals to wear face masks and face coverings for health purposes. The original bill allowing face coverings to be worn was set to expire August 1.
“The overwhelming support for this legislation demonstrates support among state leaders for wearing a mask to slow the spread of COVID-19. This is important as we move forward to limit the spread of the virus so we can educate our children and push the economy forward,” Gov. Cooper said in a statement.
