(WWJ) A Michigan state senator who worked to repeal the governor's coronavirus-related restrictions has tested positive for COVID-19.
Senator Tom Barrett of Charlotte says he tested positive Friday while reporting for duty for the Michigan National Guard. Barrett says that he has no symptoms and looks forward to returning to work as soon as possible.
Senate officials said they followed the procedure established months ago and informed senators and staff of the positive test result and then provided all senators and staff with "appropriate information for follow-up and protocols."
"Our immediate focus is on notification to all senators and staff. We will evaluate the need for changes to the legislative calendar in the coming days," said Shirkey.
In a statement, Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey said they've notified all senators and "will evaluate the need for changes to the legislative calendar in the coming days,"
Barrett issued the following statement: "The Michigan Army National Guard implemented a COVID-19 screening policy for all soldiers one week prior to their departure for training events. Despite taking reasonable precautions, I was notified this afternoon that I tested positive during a routine screening on Friday, July 31.
"Thankfully I do not have any significant symptoms at this time, and I will be self-isolating according to medical guidelines. I have done my best to make contact with those I have been around in the past couple weeks so that they may also seek medical advice.
He added: "I look forward to resuming my normal work schedule as quickly as possible."
Barrett was among legislators working to strip Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of her powers over her decisions to shut down businesses and schools to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Earlier, Barrett said, "Michigan families are hurting. Jobs have been lost, and unemployment is soaring ...Reasonable accommodations can be made to begin to reopen the state, but the governor has been unwilling to work with us."
