Sen. Tracy wins approval of bill that would end right of legislators to receive state health benefits if convicted of a felony for misusing their office

(NASHVILLE, TN), April 1, 2008 --  Senator Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) has won Senate approval of legislation he sponsored that would end the rights of a member of the General Assembly to continue receiving healthcare benefits if they are convicted of a felony for misuse of their office.  The bill, SB 2670, requires the state to end the benefits upon conviction or upon a plea of guilty of such charges if the charges are in relation to the member’s official capacity as a legislator.

“There should be severe consequences for breaking the public’s trust,” said Senator Tracy.  “There should be no state benefits for those who have been convicted of a felony for misuse of their public office."

Present law provides that upon retirement from the general assembly, any senator or representative, upon completion of a term of office may elect to retain state health insurance by paying a monthly premium. Under Tracy’s bill, continuation of state health insurance would not apply to any member of the General Assembly who is convicted in any state or federal court of a felony arising out of the person's official capacity. In the event that a conviction is later overturned and the person is acquitted, or is granted a full pardon, then the person would be restored all rights in regard to continuation of health insurance. 

“The General Assembly has already passed similar legislation ending legislative pensions for those convicted of a crime in relation to their official capacity as a member of the General Assembly,” Tracy added.  “I am pleased this bill received unanimous support by the State Senate.”

The bill now goes to the House of Representatives, where it is awaiting approval.  It is sponsored by Rep. Charles Curtiss (D-Sparta) in the House.

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