A lost opportunity to tackle legislative misconduct

“If we can’t elect someone who can meet the low moral standards of the House, then we’re really in trouble.”

With lightning speed the Massachusetts House recently approved stronger measures against domestic violence. Unfortunately, the legislative enthusiasm waned and there has been no change in the rules of conduct for representatives. There is still no requirement for the summary expulsion from the House of any member convicted of a misdemeanor. Consequently, the sudden sensitivity for the long ignored rights of abused women does not launder the loss of reputation the House suffered because of the unjustified eviction of Carlos Henriquez.

The decision to elect an interim representative from the district imposes an inconvenience to the community. The dates for an interim election and the normal every two year ritual collide. The preliminary special election was on April Fool’s Day and the final election will take place on Tuesday, April 29. However, those who want to be candidates in the regular election for representative from the 5th Suffolk must file their qualifying signatures by April 29.

Another development that could cause greater confusion, according to his lawyer, is that Henriquez is eligible for parole on April 14. Henriquez has no prior convictions or restraining orders, and there are no reports that he has been anything other than a model prisoner. Now the Parole Board has to determine whether its members have the courage to begin the process of undoing a major injustice. At any rate, Henriquez will be released from jail no later than mid-July.

It would have been more politically positive for the residents of the 5th Suffolk to protest the arbitrary removal of their representative, whether or not they supported him. Then those who objected to Henriquez’s performance as their representative could mobilize a significant campaign for a candidate of their choice. Judging from the results from the primary election, that candidate might well be Evandro Carvalho, who garnered 49 percent of the vote in the five-candidate race.

The Legislature has failed to establish standards of personal behavior for their members. The people should vigorously oppose the arbitrary removal from office of those whom they have elected.