Sen. Tracy disappointed ethics bill defeated in House of Representatives

(NASHVILLE, TN), April 29, 2008 – State Senator Jim Tracy said he was very disappointed with action in the House of Representatives today that killed a bill he sponsored that would have ended the health insurance benefits of a member of the General Assembly or governor upon conviction for felonies involving their office. It is sponsored by Rep. Charles Curtiss (D-Sparta) in the House of Representatives.

“I am very disappointed in the outcome of this legislation,” said Senator Tracy.  “State legislators’ rights or a governor’s right to the benefits associated with holding office should be terminated upon conviction for violating the public’s trust.  This is simple, common sense legislation and I urge the House to reconsider their actions.” 

Tracy won approval of the bill by a vote of 32 to 0 in the State Senate on March 31.  The bill was approved in the House Judiciary and Finance Committees before being sent to the Calendar Committee, which generally acts as a panel which schedules bills.   The legislation was killed by a voice vote, with five members asking to be recorded as voting no.  

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.   

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Reference / link to legislation:
SB 2670.