HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania House of Representatives took historic steps Monday to allow the chamber to do its part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 while no longer requiring all members to be present on the House floor.

Members voted unanimously to adopt a rule change that strengthens the body’s ability to take efficient and effective legislative action during these difficult times.

“Under our current rules, members must be present in the Capitol to vote on legislation. We had to convene a quorum of members in Harrisburg today to vote to change our rules,” Majority Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) said. “Under the new rules, members can vote on bills before the House and in committees without leaving their districts.”

The rules changes will be reflected in three separate ways:

“We are living in a worldwide event of the magnitude many of us have never experienced. Leaders at state, federal and local levels are working constantly to stay ahead of the next development and keep their communities safe and operating,” Cutler said. “These important rule changes will allow our chamber to be a part of the solution and keep the voice of our constituents at the forefront of every decision made in Harrisburg.”

The rule changes will expire at the end of the emergency declaration or if the declaration is rescinded.