Gov. Bill Lee plans to sign new COVID-19 restrictions into law before end of week

Gov. Bill Lee has pointed out that portions of a soon-to-be law will need to be fixed next session. But he says he will sign new pandemic restrictions into law before the end of the week. They’ll set new limits on how schools, music venues and businesses can respond to COVID-19.

Among many changes, the bill limits when mask mandates can be applied in public schools, prevents businesses from mandating vaccines and allows hospital visitation for COVID patients who are nearing the end of their lives.

He believes that specific hospital provision might need some changes to make sure it follows the intent.

“That’s what we will be working toward to change as soon as the general assembly is back in place,” Lee said.

Legislative leaders told Lee they wanted the same, but while speeding through the session, the law they passed would allow hospital visitation for all COVID patients.

Other industries also opposed components of the bill, but they didn’t push for a veto. Instead, they have turned their focus to making amendments when lawmakers return in January.