Pierce County lawmaker tests positive for COVID-19
University Place’s state Representative Mari Leavitt has tested positive for the coronavirus during the first week of the legislative session.
Leavitt, a Democrat, represents the 28th Legislative District, including Fircrest, University Place, Lakewood, Steilacoom, Tillicum, DuPont, part of Tacoma.
She announced on Friday that she would work from home following the positive test result.
“Fortunately, I do not have any symptoms and am fully vaccinated and boosted,” Leavitt said in a statement.
She said she is feeling good so far.
“ I’m more concerned about the many residents in the 28th, and across Pierce, who may be going through it and having significant symptoms. This virus is certainly ravaging our County,” she told The News Tribune.
Leavitt joins at least five other state lawmakers who have tested positive in the first week, according to The Seattle Times.
The Washington Legislature began its 2022 session on Jan. 10 as a largely virtual 60-day session. The House has gone almost completely remote, while the Senate allows a maximum of 15 elected representatives on the floor at a time, who must test negative for the virus. Proof of vaccination is not required.
Leavitt will continue to work from home during isolation. If the House returns to the floor with health protocols in place, she said she will return to the Capitol.
