Democratic leaders Tuesday backtracked on a plan to reconvene the House next week after rank-and-file lawmakers called the move “dangerous.”
Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, a Maryland Democrat, told reporters Tuesday the decision was based on several factors, including a recommendation from healthcare officials.
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“The House physician’s view is that there is a risk to members that is one he would not recommend taking,” Hoyer said.
Hoyer told reporters leaders will wait until a second economic aid package is ready for a vote.
The Senate is scheduled to reconvene on Monday, and the House had planned to return. Now, its next session remains on hold. The House has been in recess since mid-March due to the coronavirus.
“We will be back very soon to pass the legislation,” Hoyer said.
Democratic leaders faced a significant backlash from members during an afternoon conference call on Monday. Hoyer announced on the call that the House would return on Monday, but lawmakers complained it would be difficult for members to travel to Washington and remain for long periods of time in order to avoid frequent travel, which is considered risky because of the coronavirus.
