Georgia state GOP legislator removed from chamber for declining to take COVID-19 test

Georgia state GOP lawmaker David Clark was removed Tuesday from the state's House chambers for refusing to take a COVID-19 test that is required for lawmakers and staff, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

COVID-19 guidelines require lawmakers be tested twice a week, according to the AJC. Clark had not been tested since the beginning of the session, which was three weeks ago, said Kaleb McMichen, a spokesman for House Speaker David Ralston.

Clark was escorted out of the chamber by a state trooper after his refusal to leave when initially asked. Several other lawmakers applauded his removal.

"We have standards and rules to help members and staff stay safe," Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones said. "The speaker made the right call."

Clark was not willing to change his ways following his removal, vowing not to get tested and threatening legal action.

"I’m not falling in line," Clark said. "They have no right to do this."