March 1, 2022 3:00 a.m.

A Republican proposal to amend masking requirements in the Oregon Senate Chamber failed on Monday.

A release from the Oregon Senate Republicans said Democrats voted down the rule change along party lines, 9-17.

Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp of Bend said “This body is one of the only legislative bodies in the nation that requires our members to mask while speaking. There is no reason for it. The majority kicked out a member last week for something that just 24 hours later the CDC says is not required. I asked them to wait, now the CDC shows exactly why they should have”.

Knopp said the Senate will remain out of step with the CDC guidance until the masking requirement is struck.

The release said the CDC announced Friday that it is no longer recommending most Americans wear masks indoors. According to the CDC’s framework, Marion County is considered at medium COVID-19 level, making masks optional.