Senate passes legislation to limit authority DHW Director

The Senate Health and Welfare Committee advanced Senate Bill 1139 to the Senate Floor on Monday. S1139 clarifies the definitions of “quarantine” and “isolation” and adds definitions for “biological agent,” “chemical agent,” “medically unknown symptoms,” and “restricted access.” Additionally, it clarifies the criteria under which an order of isolation, quarantine, or restricted access can be made and removes much of the discretion and potential for agency overreach. The bill also implements the mechanism of court review of such orders after requests from those who believe they are wrongfully detained under any of these orders. The bill further provides the ability to petition a judge for release from any order if an individual believes it is unlawful. S1139 passed the Senate unanimously on Thursday, and is now headed to the House.