The Joint Senate Resolution S.R. 3, offered by Senator Baruth, proposes the adoption of a temporary rule, designated as Rule 9B, to allow for electronic participation in Senate sessions under specific circumstances. While Senate sessions are primarily to be conducted in-person, this rule permits Senators to participate, debate, deliberate, and vote in concurrently conducted electronic sessions on an emergency basis if they meet certain criteria related to COVID-19. These criteria include testing positive for COVID-19, exhibiting symptoms while awaiting test results, being a primary caregiver for someone affected by COVID-19, or facing a temporary emergency related to care or health.

The resolution stipulates that a Senator can utilize the electronic participation option for a maximum of two consecutive days, with the possibility of requesting an extension from the Rules Committee. This temporary rule is set to remain in effect until March 11, 2025, ensuring that Senators can continue to fulfill their legislative duties while addressing health and caregiving challenges related to the ongoing pandemic.