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COVID-19 tops the list of things to expect during Tennessee’s 2022 Session

Tennessee capitol
Rachel IacovoneWPLN News (File)
The key issues before Tennessee's 114th General Assembly.
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The Tennessee General Assembly will be back in Nashville on Tuesday for the start of the 2022 general session. One task is changing the state’s COVID-19 protocols — again. 

In October, legislators passed an enormous COVID-19 bill that made several changes to masking and vaccine policies. But even then, several lawmakers, as well as Gov. Bill Lee, said that more changes would need to be made when the session begins. One is clarifying when a COVID-19 patient can have visitors. Lawmakers meant to allow those near end of life to have someone there with them. However, the current wording allows any COVID-19 patient to have visitation.

Other things to look forward to include lawmakers finalizing the new State House, Senate and Congressional district maps. They will also discuss changes to the elections process that would get rid of voting machines and ballot marking devices, forcing the use of only hand-marked paper ballots. 

Blaise Gainey, Political Reporter

Blaise Gainey is the youngest of three siblings, husband and father of two. He previously held the State Government Reporter position for WFSU News in Tallahassee. He is from Apopka, Fla., and graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He previously worked for The Florida Channel and WTXL-TV. He is excited to move to another capital and report on state government. In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports, outdoor activities and enjoying family time.

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