State Rep. Mike Sparks, R-Smyrna, unanimously passed a resolution honoring health care workers on the front lines in the fight against Covid-19 during the 61st Extraordinary Session of the Tennessee General Assembly.

Legislators met Aug.10-12 to address Covid-19 liability protections, telehealth services, and laws protecting state property and first responders.

House Resolution 8001 recognizes the significant contribution of medical professionals and health care support staff have made while putting themselves in harm’s way to perform essential, necessary and life-saving work to keep Tennesseans safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

"My family has personally witnessed the compassionate care rendered by nurses, doctors and countless other support staff,” Sparks said.  “My sister has been in a nursing home for many years after suffering a brain injury and bad fall and we’ve seen first-hand the challenges health care workers deal with daily. Not only are they caring for the health of their patients, but they’ve also provided emotional support to long-term care patients who have suffered from isolation from their loved ones during this pandemic. They are true heroes and deserve our gratitude.”

Sparks said he planned to further review and address important health care legislation that supports long-term care facilities and the aging during the 112th General Assembly.

“COVID-19 has dealt a huge blow to everyone. While we continue to be presented with new and difficult challenges as a result of this virus, we must make sure our state is prepared to meet those challenges head on,” Sparks said.

The resolution also honors the contributions of local government employees for their leadership in determining safest practices to keep the public safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

To read the full resolution go here.